Aldi Ireland has announced the nationwide rollout of autism-friendly hours for every store around the country which will see the implementation of a number of autism-friendly measures in shops.
The measure is being rolled out across their entire store network of 156 stores in Ireland beginning next week and will be in place every Tuesday between 6.30pm - 8.30pm.
The store has also introduced cards that will increase accessibility for all shoppers. Here is everything you need to know about Aldi's rollout.
READ MORE: Man rushed to hospital after car crashes into Aldi store in Rathmines, Dublin
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.
- Switch off digital screens to limit harsh light in store.
Aldi also stated that they welcome assistance dogs in their stores at all times.
Alongside the autism-friendly hours, the use of Jam cards will also be rolled out to increase accessibility for all shoppers.
Jam cards can be presented as a physical card or by app and 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, said: “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.
“We are thrilled that Aldi are taking measures to address this by launching a nationwide rollout of autism-friendly hours, providing an opportunity for those with autism, a hidden disability, or a communication barrier, to shop without the crowds, noise and unpredictability."
Liz Fox, Corporate Responsibility Director at Aldi Ireland, added: "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."
READ NEXT:
- Mary Lou McDonald blasts "false and deeply offensive" Regency comments: 'I have never met Gerard Hutch'
- Ireland to record hottest day of the year so far this week amid glorious Met Eireann forecast
- Wild scenes at Crucible as protesters storm snooker tables during World Championships
- House next to where Sophie Toscan Du Plantier was murdered for sale for second time in two years
- Listeners in tears over Christy Dignam's 'heartbreaking' interview with Ryan Tubridy
Get news updates direct to your inbox by signing up to our daily newsletter here
