ALDI Ireland has recently launched the nationwide roll out of autism-friendly hours.
Following a successful trial, ALDI announced that it will officially introduce the measure across its entire store network of 156 stores in Ireland, effective from Monday, 24 April.
The discounter noted that the move will see the implementation of a number of autism-friendly measures in ALDI stores every Tuesday between 6.30 - 8.30pm.
During the autism-friendly hours, ALDI stores will: Limit noise in stores, especially at the tills, by decreasing the volume of scanners, and by turning off unnecessary announcements.
ALDI highlighted that it will switch off digital screens to limit harsh light in store.
Commenting, Liz Fox, corporate responsibility director at ALDI Ireland, said, "At ALDI we understand that our customers often have diverse needs and requirements, and by implementing these measures to want to enhance the customer experience for those who may be sensitive to noise, bright lights or other sensory information."
JAM Cards
The use of JAM cards will also be rolled out in all ALDI stores to increase accessibility for all shoppers.
Aldi explained, that JAM cards, which can be presented as a physical card or by app, offer discreet accessibility by allowing people to ask for a minute of patience in any situation they need.
Nicola Tipping, business development manager at NOW Group, a social enterprise committed to supporting those with autism and learning difficulties, commented, “It is all about increasing public understanding and making things, such as a shop, which is an everyday necessity, become accessible for an autistic person just as it is for everybody else.
“Since launching the JAM Card initiative in 2012, the scheme has been a resounding success with more than 2,500 organisations across the country participating in the training programme."
© 2023 Checkout – your source for the latest Irish retail news. Article by Donna Ahern. For more retail news, click here. Click subscribe to sign up for the Checkout print edition.
