Retailers pump signature scents—Abercrombie’s Fierce cologne, Singapore Airlines’ Stefan Floridian Waters—boosting dwell time 30% per scent marketing studies. Hotels layer lobby notes with guest room diffusers for subconscious familiarity. Real estate agents bake cookies or diffuse citrus pre-open houses.
Technology advances—HVAC-integrated systems, NFC-triggered personal scents via phone. Sustainability demands natural oils over synthetics. Blind testing refines blends; focus groups rate emotional resonance. Subscription pods refresh monthly. Airports deploy calming lavender post-security. Olfactory logos trademark unique formulas. Trend extends to VR—scent collars sync smells with virtual bakeries. Scent shapes memory deeper than sight, turning air into invisible brand equity.