Walmart has announced plans to introduce sensory-friendly shopping hours in its stores in time for the holiday season. The mega-chain first tested sensory-friendly shopping hours during the 2023 back-to-school season, and said in a press release that the biggest feedback it received after testing was “keep it going.”
What will sensory-friendly shopping look like at Walmart? “During back-to-school season, we replaced the TV wall with still images, turned off the radio, and dimmed the lights whenever possible.” the press release explained. Feedback from the pilot program was overwhelmingly positive. While these changes may have seemed small to some, they have changed the shopping experience for others. ”
Walmart plans to bring the same shopping environment back to its stores in time for the 2023 holiday season. Starting Nov. 10, sensory-friendly conditions will be introduced at all Walmart stores in the U.S. and Puerto Rico from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. local time every day to make shopping at Walmart “a little easier on the eyes and ears.” Ru. The press release states that there is no scheduled end date for this program.
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Fans looking for a less exciting shopping experience expressed support for Walmart’s plan on Twitter. “I love how quiet it is when I walk into the supermarket,” one user wrote. “I’m concerned about the noise from the speakers.”
“Walmart is trying to create a calmer experience for people with sensory issues by not using the radio and showing still images on the TV, which I think is great.” [because] It’s tough being there,” another person wrote.
Walmart said it will continue to listen to guest feedback and make changes to its operations as needed. “From in-person conversations, emails, listening sessions, social media, and personal experience in our stores, we’ve seen what these changes mean for our customers and employees.” Press It is stated in the release. “And we continue to welcome feedback on how we can enhance these sensory-friendly measures in our stores.”