A Little More Noise and a Little Less Conversation? Ambient Noise in Restaurants
Keywords
ambient noise levels, restaurants, servicescape, demographic differences
Abstract
The purpose of this exploratory study is to expand the current literature on servicescapes by examining the total noise environment in restaurants. Its goal is to gain an understanding of restaurant customers' expectations and preferences for background noise and to determine whether demographic variables, especially age, affect these preferences. The researchers surveyed guests at one casual restaurant in the southwestern United States. The results showed that guests were satisfied with the overall noise and music levels, which, as measured by decibel level, were in the acceptable range. There were significant differences in guests' perceptions of noise in both typical restaurants and this specific restaurant based on both age and education levels. Restaurant managers can use these findings to determine the noise levels most appropriate for their target markets.
Publication Date
8-16-2011
Original Citation
Zemke, D. Hertzman, J. Raab, Singh, D. (2011). A Little More Noise and a Little Less Conversation? Ambient Noise in Restaurants, Journal of Foodservice Business Research, 14 (3), pp. 256-271.
Number of Pages
256-271
Document Type
Paper
Language
English
Source Title
Journal of Foodservice Business Research
Volume
14
Issue
3
Copyright Status
Unknown
Copyright Date
2011
College
Rosen College of Hospitality Management
Location
Rosen College of Hospitality Management
STARS Citation
Zemke, Dina Marie V.; Hertzman, Jean L.; Raab, Carola; and Singh, Dipendra, "A Little More Noise and a Little Less Conversation? Ambient Noise in Restaurants" (2011). Faculty Scholarship and Creative Works. 136.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/ucfscholar/136
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