Aldi is launching a sensory-friendly shopping trial across select UK stores, aiming to provide a quieter environment for customers.
- Almost 100 Aldi stores in regions including Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, and Yorkshire will participate in the trial.
- The initiative involves reducing noise by stopping tannoy announcements and turning down till scan sounds during dedicated times.
- Aldi staff have been trained to assist customers with non-visible disabilities as part of the initiative.
- The program, recognizing the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, may expand nationwide if successful.
Beginning next week and continuing through to the end of October, Aldi is initiating a trial to create a more sensory-friendly shopping experience in approximately 100 stores. The goal is to accommodate those who may find typical shopping environs overstimulating. This commitment to inclusivity involves offering quieter shopping hours every Tuesday from 6 PM to 8:30 PM, across diverse regions including Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, and Yorkshire.
Aldi’s efforts to lessen sensory inputs encompass halting tannoy announcements and moderating the volume of till scan sounds. These adjustments are intended to foster an environment more suitable for customers with sensory sensitivities, ultimately making the shopping experience more accessible and comfortable.
The company’s approach further extends to increasing awareness and support for individuals with non-visible disabilities. To this end, Aldi has provided training for its employees to better identify and assist individuals displaying the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower symbol, a globally recognized sign of non-visible disabilities. This initiative not only aids customers but also seeks to create a more understanding workplace for Aldi’s employees.
Vicky Metcalf, Director of Diversity and Inclusion at Aldi UK, emphasized the company’s dedication to accessibility: “Our new sensory-friendly shopping hours aim to help those who prefer a quieter shopping experience or struggle with noisy environments.” This trial reflects Aldi’s broader commitment to ensure their stores cater to the needs of all shoppers and employees alike.
Concurrently, some Aldi stores are also introducing precautionary measures like bag checks to address increasing shoplifting incidents, highlighting a dual focus on inclusivity and security within their retail operations.
Aldi’s sensory-friendly trial showcases an evolving commitment to inclusivity and security in retail.
