From next week until the end of October, almost 100 stores across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire, and Yorkshire will introduce a new shopping initiative. Every Tuesday between 6pm and 8.30pm, these stores will offer a quieter shopping period. If this initiative proves successful, Aldi plans to extend the program to all of its UK stores. Changes during this time will include the suspension of Tannoy announcements, quieter till-scan sounds, and clear indications of the dedicated hours displayed for all customers.
Vicky Metcalf, the diversity and inclusion director at Aldi UK, expressed the company’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity. The new sensory-friendly shopping hours aim to assist those who prefer a quieter shopping experience or struggle with noisy environments.
“We are fully dedicated to ensuring we are as accessible and inclusive as possible, for both our shoppers and colleagues. We eagerly await customer feedback on this trial to help us shape our approach on a national level.”
Aldi also acknowledges the significance of the Hidden Disabilities sunflower, which aids in supporting customers and staff with non-visible disabilities. As a result, Aldi staff have received thorough training on hidden disabilities and the Sunflower symbol, enabling them to provide additional assistance to those who require it.