Recently, an article titled “Skylighting and Retail Sales” was prepared by Pacific Gas and Electric Company, has been published. The article primarily investigates the impact of skylighting on retail sales.
Abstract
This report presents the findings of a study that found a statistically significant connection between skylighting and increased retail sales. The analysis of a chain retailer’s sales performance revealed that stores with skylights had significantly higher sales compared to those without. The study suggests that skylighting not only reduces lighting energy use but also enhances retail performance. These findings contribute to the growing evidence supporting the non-energy benefits of daylighting in commercial buildings. This detailed report provides an overview of the methodology, findings, and implications of the study on the impact of skylighting on retail sales performance.
Skylighting and Retail Sales: Investigating the Impact
The study focused on investigating the potential impact of skylighting on retail sales performance. The researchers aimed to isolate the effect of daylight by focusing on buildings with skylights rather than daylighting from windows. The study utilized a statistical technique called backward stepwise regression analysis to analyze the importance and impact of multiple variables simultaneously. Performance data were gathered from a retailer and three school districts, with this report focusing on the retail analysis.
Analyzing Retail Sales Performance: Methodology Overview
The study analyzed data on the sales performance of a chain retailer that operates a set of nearly identical stores. A total of 108 stores were included in the analysis, with two-thirds of the stores having skylighting and one-third without. The design and operation of all the store sites were remarkably uniform, except for the presence of skylights in some. The stores were located within a limited geographic region and had similar climatic conditions. The buildings in the study fell within constrained ranges of size and age.The statistical technique of backward stepwise regression analysis was employed to control for the influence of other variables, such as store size and age, which might influence sales. The analysis allowed the researchers to estimate the effect of each known variable and determine which variables had no significant effect. Skylighting was found to have a large, positive, and highly significant correlation to higher sales in this retail chain.
Significant Connection Found: Skylighting and Increased Retail Sales
The study found a statistically compelling connection between skylighting and increased retail sales. The presence of skylights in retail stores was positively correlated with higher sales performance. The results indicated that skylighting had a large, positive, and highly significant impact on sales in the retail chain under investigation.
Beyond Retail: Implications for Daylighting in Commercial Buildings
The findings of this study have implications beyond the retail sector. The study suggests that the beneficial effects of daylighting are not likely to be confined to just schools or retail establishments, but rather that human activity in general is likely to benefit from exposure to daylighting. The study also highlights the potential for daylighting to have non-energy benefits, such as improving productivity and performance in various building types.
Conclusion: Skylighting's Influence on Retail Performance
The study’s most striking revelation was the significant positive correlation between the presence of skylights and increased retail sales. Incorporate the specific data from the study, noting that retail spaces with natural skylights experienced a 40% increase in sales on average compared to those without. Emphasize this significant sales boost as a clear indicator of the effectiveness of natural lighting in retail environments.
The Psychology of Lighting in Retail
Diving deeper, the study suggests that natural light positively affects consumer behavior and mood. The presence of skylights creates an inviting atmosphere, making customers more inclined to linger and, subsequently, purchase more. This section of our blog post explores the psychological impact of natural lighting on consumers, backed by the study’s findings.
Sunskylight’s Solutions: Enhancing Retail Spaces

Here at Sunskylight, we understand the value of natural lighting. Our range of skylight solutions is designed to emulate the benefits highlighted in the study. We offer a variety of skylights that not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of retail spaces but also align with the psychological benefits of natural lighting.
Outlook: A Brighter Future for Retail with Sunskylight
The study “Skylighting and Retail Sales” opens up a new frontier in retail space design. At Sunskylight, we’re excited to be at the forefront of this revolution, offering solutions that not only brighten spaces but also potentially boost sales and enhance customer experiences. Discover the power of natural light in your retail space with Sunskylight.