Enhancing layout effectiveness: Analyzing in-store experience in sports retail

Muhammad Syahir Zulkifli (1) , Muhammad Faizal Kutip (2) , Adam Afif Mohamad Azmi (1) , Muhammad Zakwan Rusydi Suhaimi (1) , Fazli Hisam Mohd Zainol Abidin (3) , Mohd Jazimin Ahmad (4)
(1) Faculty of Sports Science and Recreation, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), 40450 Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, Malaysia,
(2) Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, Malaysia,
(3) Customer Service Department, Decathlon Bandar Sri Damansara, Malaysia,
(4) JabatanSukan dan Rekreasi, Kolej Poly-Tech MARA Bangi Seksyen 14, Jalan Teras Jernang Bandar Baru Bangi 43650 Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped the sports retail landscape, compelling brands to adapt their in-store experiences to sustain customer satisfaction. This study examines the effectiveness of in-store experiences and layout strategies at Decathlon Bandar Sri Damansara, focusing on customer flow, signage, verticalization, and implantation logic. A quantitative research design was employed, utilizing a structured survey with random sampling. Multiple regression analysis showed that customer flow (β = 0.312, p < 0.001) and signage (β = 0.278, p < 0.001) had the strongest positive impact, followed by verticalization (β = 0.195, p < 0.01) and implantation logic (β = 0.163, p < 0.05). The model explained 67.4% of the variance in customer satisfaction (R² = 0.674, p < 0.001). This research provides recommendations for Decathlon and similar retailers, emphasizing strategic layout planning, digital transformation, and sustainability. Addressing these factors can enhance customer engagement, strengthen competitive positioning, and ensure long-term business success

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Authors

Muhammad Syahir Zulkifli
Muhammad Faizal Kutip
muhammadfaizal@uitm.edu.my (Primary Contact)
Adam Afif Mohamad Azmi
Muhammad Zakwan Rusydi Suhaimi
Fazli Hisam Mohd Zainol Abidin
Mohd Jazimin Ahmad
Zulkifli, M. S. ., Kutip, M. F., Mohamad Azmi, A. A. ., Suhaimi, M. Z. R. ., Mohd Zainol Abidin, F. H. ., & Ahmad, M. J. (2025). Enhancing layout effectiveness: Analyzing in-store experience in sports retail. The Asian Journal of Professional & Business Studies, 6(1), 144–152. https://doi.org/10.61688/ajpbs.v6i1.394

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