Supermarket psychology, I have learned, is practically a science. It
is governed by lab-tested principles and meticulous observation.
Consultants churn out papers on such matters as unplanned purchasing
and the effectiveness of shopping-cart signage.
The goal of all this effort is not, as one might guess, to improve the
American diet. Nor is it to strike an ideal balance between
nutrition, convenience and cost. The aim, seasoned observers inform
me, is quite simple: It is to get the shopper to spend more money.
-- Janny Scott. "Supermarket Psychology" Los Angeles
Times
October 18, 1992. "Health Horizon" p.5