CINCINNATI, Jan 20, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- A recent Cintas Corporation (NASDAQ: CTAS) telephone survey conducted by Harris Interactive(R) among more than 1,000 U.S. adults ages 18 and older revealed what experiences negatively impact a customer's perception of a retail store. Ninety-nine percent of U.S.adults reported that any poor cleanliness issue would negatively affect their perception. More specifically, dirty restrooms and unpleasant odor are top annoyances over poor customer service.
"The retail industry is exceptionally competitive, so retailers must provide a pleasant shopping experience to attract and maintain loyal shoppers," said Mike Thompson, Senior Vice President, Cintas Facility Services. "This research affirms that maintaining a clean retail environment can significantly impact the success of a retail operation."
When asked what experiences with poor cleanliness would negatively impact their perception of a retail store, U.S. adults reported the following: -- Unclean restrooms 95 percent -- Unpleasant odor 92 percent -- Poor customer service 90 percent -- Dirty floors 86 percent -- Dirty shopping carts 84 percent -- Poor staff appearance 83 percent -- Spills or stains 81 percent -- Wet floors with no signage 76 percent -- Dusty surfaces 74 percent -- Dirty glass and windows 68 percent "If shoppers are unsatisfied with the cleanliness of a retail store, they will take their business elsewhere," added Dave Mesko, Senior Director of Marketing, Cintas.
Link to the entire article:
http://www.cintas.com/company/news_media/press_releases/Study-Finds-a-Dirty-Store-Sends-Shoppers-out-the-Front-Door.aspx
Rick Gelinas
