The Effect of the Physical Environment on Consumers’ Perceptions: A Review of the Retailing Research on External Shopping Environment

Abstract Regarding the revitalization of intra-urban centres, this review focuses on consumers’ perceptions of the physical environment with emphasis on the tangible elements in the external shopping environment. Based on the typologies of environmental elements, a systematic review of 59 retailing articles by means of content analysis was conducted. Several design and ambient elements were identified as relevant to consumers, but an in-depth understanding of their effects is needed to enhance the attractiveness of intra-urban centres.