Billa Expands "Quiet Hour" for People with Autism

Billa started the concept in its store on Goldeggasse in Vienna and expanded it to other locations last year. From now on, the measures will also be implemented in Austria's "greenest" Billa store at Pilotengasse 76 and at Thaliastraße 154A in Vienna, as well as at Doktor-Gschmeidler-Straße 16 in Krems. In May, the offering will be expanded to ten additional "Quiet Hour" markets in Upper Austria. More locations in other federal states will follow.

"We want to make the shopping experience at BILLA accessible to everyone. The positive response to the 'Quiet Hour' has encouraged us to expand the concept to more locations. Currently, there are 19 markets, and more will follow," said Harald Mießner, Billa Board of Sales.

"Quiet Hour": Reduction of Acoustic and Visual Stimuli for Autistic People

The Billa teams in the participating "Quiet Hour" markets have been sensitized and trained in collaboration with specialized associations to meet the needs of autistic customers. During the daily "Quiet Hour," radio and advertising announcements, as well as market announcements, are omitted to create a more relaxed shopping atmosphere.

To reduce personal contact, deli orders are placed on the counter instead of being handed over directly. Additionally, the pace at the checkout is adjusted so that customers have enough time to pack their purchases. For particularly light-sensitive individuals, disinfected sunglasses are available free of charge.

The "Quiet Hour" takes place from Monday to Saturday in the afternoons – specifically outside peak times, as crowded markets can be a source of stress for autistic individuals. The exact time is individually adjusted to the respective location.

The "Quiet Hour" is available from Monday to Saturday in the following markets:

Vienna:

Lower Austria:

Burgenland:

Salzburg:

Styria:

Carinthia:

(Red)

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.