Gies College of Business

Research shows retailers should use inspiration, not deals, to significantly boost sales

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Jan 3, 2023 Business Administration Faculty Research


While most retailers counted on deep discounts to navigate the holiday shopping season, new research by Gies Assistant Professor Unnati Narang shows that focusing on inspirational content instead of promotions in 2023 can enhance overall sales by 13% to 31%.

While most retailers counted on deep discounts to navigate the holiday shopping season, new research shows that focusing on inspirational content instead of promotions in 2023 can enhance overall sales by 13% to 31%.

“Our research shows how engaging shoppers with inspirational messaging that retailers can easily deliver through in-store kiosks and mobile devices lead to more purchases than promotional messaging,” said Unnati Narang, an assistant professor of marketing at Gies who specializes in retailing, mobile marketing, and digital platforms.

Gies College of Business
515 East Gregory Drive
Champaign, IL 61820
Phone: 217-300-7327