You are using an outdated browser. Some features may not work correctly, and your experience will not be good. Update your browser

The Psychology of Shopping

Mike Culley


Regions:
England, Cambridgeshire, Norfolk, Suffolk, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Essex
Notice Period:
Emergency (maybe less than one week's notice)
Type:
Professional
Fee:
Paid
Category:
Business
Updated:
20th July 2026

Shopping is one of the world's most popular leisure activities. Whether we're browsing the high street, exploring a shopping centre, or filling an online basket from the comfort of home, we're making countless purchase decisions—many of which we probably don't even realise can be influenced! Whether we're browsing the high street or shopping online, retailers use a remarkable range of techniques—from store layouts and pricing to colour, music, scents, and "limited-time offers"—to influence our choices.

In this entertaining and thought-provoking talk, we'll explore the psychology behind shopping and reveal the subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) ways shops, supermarkets, and online retailers encourage us to spend more. Discover why impulse buying is so common, why discounts are so irresistible, and how brands win our loyalty.

Packed with surprising research, real-world examples, and plenty of "I've done that!" moments, this talk will change the way you shop—and might even save you money.

Views: 8 | Enquiries: 0

About Mike Culley

With a unique blend of expertise in psychology, science, and astronomy, my aim is to deliver engaging, thought-provoking talks that inform, entertain, and inspire.

As a Chartered Occupational Psychologist, Hypnotherapist, and Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society, I draw on many years of professional experience to present concepts in an accessible, and engaging way. My talks explore topics such as human behaviour, motivation, decision-making, wellbeing, resilience, communication, and the fascinating ways our minds shape our everyday lives.

Alongside my work in psychology, I am a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society and regularly present talks and workshops on astronomy and the wider world of science. I aim to make science understandable, relevant, and exciting for audiences with or without a scientific background.

My presentations are carefully tailored to suit the interests and knowledge of each audience, whether professional organisations, community groups, clubs, educational audiences, or conference delegates. Every talk combines accurate, evidence-based information with engaging storytelling, real-world examples, and often a generous dose of humour.


Send a message to the speaker

If you are interested in this talk and wish to contact the speaker, please complete the following form:

 
Please provide your contact name
 
Please provide the name of your group
 
Your phone number so that the speaker can contact you
 
Your email address so that the speaker can contact you
 
Give details about the event, time of day and location
Prove you are human please.
Use the slider to drag the puzzle so that the top and bottom are aligned , or use an alternate text based challenge by clicking here.
Question: Is water wet?
 

Site Search

Search across all speakers, topics and tags. Put your search term in the box and press enter or hit search

Use quotes around exact multiple word searches, eg "winston churchill".