Lidl launching Autism Aware Quiet Evenings in all stores
By Mark Keane
Lidl is implementing Autism Aware Quiet Evenings across all its stores in Ireland, including all local stores, every Tuesday between 6pm and 8pm from April 2.
According to the discount supermarket chain, the evenings were trialed last year and received positive feedback from customers.
Lidl is implementing Autism Aware Quiet Evenings
Lidl stores will implement sensory adjustments including reduced lighting, no in-store announcements or music, priority queuing – as well as the option of extra assistance upon request – and the lowering of till scan sounds.
There will also be an in-store map available for children with autism to help plan and organise their shopping trips, adding structure and routine to the experience, and autism-assistance dogs are welcome too.
Last November, SuperValu Walkinstown made Tuesday evenings autism-friendly for families that found grocery shopping in everyday settings stressful to help “regulate and reduce the amount of sensory stimulation taking place for people with autism”.
The launch of these Lidl evenings, from April 2, coincides with the 11th year of World Autism Day.
There are currently three Autism Aware stores, one of which is in Dun Laoghaire, Dublin.
Deirdre Ryan, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility for Lidl Ireland said: “Public spaces can be overwhelming for anyone with autism, we would like to support our customers who are struggling to manage tasks such as the weekly shop, by providing a calmer environment and the security of knowing that additional assistance us available if necessary.”
The full roll-out of Autism Aware Quiet Evenings is expected to be completed across all stores in May.
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