What do "impulse buys" refer to in a retail setting?

Impulse buys refer to unplanned purchases that are often influenced by the way products are displayed and promoted in a retail environment. When items are strategically placed, such as near checkout counters or in attractive displays, they can catch the shopper's attention and prompt an immediate desire to buy, often without the shopper having intended to purchase those items.

These purchases are characterized by spontaneity and emotional decision-making, rather than being the result of extensive planning or consideration. Retailers often take advantage of this behavior by positioning high-margin or popular items in visible areas to increase the likelihood of impulse buys, ultimately boosting sales.

The other options describe different types of purchasing behaviors that do not fit the definition of impulse buying, such as purchases made with intent during sales events or items intended for future use. Each of these reflects a more calculated shopping behavior rather than the spontaneous decisions characteristic of impulse buys.