Central Co-op is to trial Quiet Hours in four of its major stores to mark Neurodiversity Week.
Taking place at Boley Park in Lichfield, Burton Road in Littleover, as well as Quorn and Anson Road in Loughborough, the trial will run every Monday from 10am to 11am.
Beginning this month, the convenience retailer has considered how different sensory needs affect shopping experiences, with the Quiet Hours attempting to reduce noise and lighting distractions where possible.
Subscribe to Grocery Gazette for free
Sign up here to get the latest grocery and food news each morning
This comes as part of Neurodiversity Week, which is a worldwide initiative that challanges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences.
While the goal looks to provide alternative shopping conditions for those who want a calmer, quieter experience, incuding those with autism and anxiety, this may also benefit the elderly or those struggling with mental health.
“With Neurodiverity Week we wanted to look into how we can continue to make Central Co-op a welcoming place for all,” inclusion and wellbeing manager, Naomi Smith said.
“If we can make some small changes in stores to cater for sensory sensitivities, we’re happy to do that if it means it helps some customers with the shopping experience, and we’re eager to hear feedback on the Quiet Hours while we continue to look at other ways to become more inclusive.”
