Four multi-method studies show that the
more elongated a container, the lower its
purchase quantity. Study 1, in the lab, shows beer
bottles are perceived to contain more than beer
cans, particularly for infrequent beer drinkers.
Study 2 analyzes scanner data to show that the
purchase quantity of cans is 63.66% higher than
the purchase quantity of bottles. Study 3, a virtual
shopping survey, demonstrates these effects are
strongest when the context is socializing at home,
and Study 4, in the lab, shows results hold only
when desired consumption level is constant.
Implications for retailers and product managers
are offered.
Keywords: Package shape effects, Visual
Perceptual Biases, Purchase Quantity
decisions.