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

College

Rosen College of Hospitality Management

Location

Rosen College of Hospitality Management

This document is currently not available for download.

View via DOI


Share

COinS