Aldi is piloting sensory-friendly shopping hours across select UK stores to support customers who prefer a quieter environment.
- This initiative is being trialled in nearly 100 stores in regions including Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, and Yorkshire.
- The sensory-friendly hours, set for Tuesdays from 6pm to 8:30pm, aim to provide a quieter shopping atmosphere by reducing noise levels.
- Aldi staff have received training to assist customers with hidden disabilities, recognising the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower symbol.
- This trial, if successful, will be expanded nationwide to enhance accessibility and inclusivity at Aldi stores.
Aldi has announced the implementation of sensory-friendly shopping hours in select UK locations, aiming to create a more accommodating retail environment. This trial will take place in almost 100 stores situated in Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, and Yorkshire. It is scheduled every Tuesday evening, from 6pm to 8.30pm, and is expected to run until the end of October.
During these hours, customers can expect a reduction in auditory stimuli, with the suspension of tannoy announcements and the lowering of till scan volumes. Furthermore, Aldi is introducing clear signage to inform customers of these dedicated shopping times, thereby enhancing the shopping experience for individuals seeking a quieter atmosphere.
A significant aspect of this initiative is the training provided to Aldi employees. Staff have been educated on the challenges faced by individuals with hidden disabilities and the importance of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower symbol. This education enables them to offer enhanced assistance to customers who may require additional support during their shopping experience.
Vicky Metcalf, Diversity and Inclusion Director at Aldi UK, stated, ‘Our new sensory-friendly shopping hours aim to help those who prefer a quieter shopping experience or struggle with noisy environments.’ She emphasised Aldi’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, both for its shoppers and employees, and expressed anticipation for customer feedback to potentially inform a broader national approach.
This initiative emerges amid increasing shoplifting incidents, prompting some Aldi stores to have checkout staff check shopping bags, correlating with rising theft rates due to the current cost-of-living crisis.
Aldi’s introduction of sensory-friendly shopping hours highlights its ongoing commitment to inclusivity and customer accommodation in its UK stores.
