How does visual merchandising primarily impact consumer behavior?

Visual merchandising significantly impacts consumer behavior primarily by enhancing the shopping experience. When stores display products in an attractive and organized manner, they create an inviting atmosphere that encourages customers to browse and engage with the merchandise. Elements such as color coordination, lighting, and thematic displays can elicit emotional responses and influence purchasing decisions. A well-designed layout can guide customers through the store, showcasing key items and creating a sense of discovery, ultimately leading to increased sales.

The other options, while they may have their own merits in a retail context, do not directly relate to the consumer's experience in the shopping environment. Reducing operational costs is more about management and logistics rather than customer engagement. Similarly, increasing employee efficiency pertains to workforce management, which can indirectly affect service quality but does not inherently improve the customer shopping experience. Simplifying product selection can assist in decision-making, but it does not encompass the broader sensory and emotional elements of visual merchandising that enhance the overall experience for shoppers.