The Friday File: A recent article in the Journal of Marketing Research shows that relaxed shoppers pay up to 15% more for the same merchandise as less-relaxed ones. So if you hear soothing music, are offered a free cup of coffee, or cocktails and finger food, or evening shopping get nervous. The research also shows that when boyfriends and husbands are absent, shopping is more relaxed. I can hardly wait to go shopping with my girlfriend!