In an effort to cater to shoppers with autism, the Asda Living store in Cheetham Hill, Manchester, will begin running a quiet hour once a week. Many people with autism suffer from a sensitivity to loud noises and may have difficulty cutting out background noise. This initiative aims to make shopping more comfortable for those with autism by eliminating unnecessary sounds.
The initiative was launched by Simon Lea after he noticed a boy with autism distressed by the level of noise in the sore. As a result, Lea came up with the idea of creating a special quiet hour during which local autism groups and families could shop without having to endure unnecessary noises. The store will now begin shutting off escalators, display TVs and in-store music at 8AM on Saturdays to accommodate shoppers with autism.
The initiative demonstrates one of the small changes retailers can make to ensure their stores are accessible to those with disabilities.
Noise-Free Retail Initiatives
This Store Will Run a Quiet Hour for Shoppers with Autism
Trend Themes
1. Accessibility Retail - The implementation of initiatives for people with disabilities will become more commonplace in retail settings.
2. Sensory-friendly Retail - The creation of environments which are safe and accommodating for individuals with sensory sensitivities will become a standard practice in retail organizations.
3. Inclusive Shopping - As consumers demand more inclusive shopping experiences, retailers should invest in strategies that respond to this demand.
Industry Implications
1. Retail Industry - Retailers have the opportunity to differentiate themselves by implementing initiatives that take into account the specific needs of customers with disabilities.
2. Autism Care Industry - The care industry has the potential to form partnerships with retailers to provide sensory accommodations to individuals on the autism spectrum.
3. Technological Innovation - Advancements in technology offer innovative solutions for sensory-friendly shopping, such as apps or augmented reality tools that can help individuals navigate stores more easily.