Lots of families will appreciate this.

ALDI Ireland has launched the nationwide rollout of autism-friendly hours, which will see the implementation of a number of autism-friendly measures in stores every Tuesday between 6.30pm and 8.30pm.

Following a successful trial, the measure is being introduced across their entire store network of 156 stores in Ireland beginning on Monday, April 24th.

During the autism-friendly hours, ALDI stores will limit noise, especially at the tills, by decreasing the volume of scanners, and by turning off unnecessary announcements.

They will also switch off digital screens to limit harsh light in store. Assistance dogs are welcome in ALDI at all times.

The use of JAM cards will also be rolled out in all ALDI stores to increase accessibility for all shoppers. JAM cards, which can be presented as a physical card or by app, offer discreet accessibility by allowing people to ask for a minute of patience in any situation they need.

“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,” said Nicola Tipping, Business Development Manager at NOW Group, a social enterprise committed to supporting those with autism and learning difficulties.

“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.”