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Kmart introduces 'Quiet Space' for customers with autism
Kmart has announced they are introducing a 'Quiet Space' shopping experience in selected stores, which will make entering the busy shop more accessible for everyone.
The new initiative helps those who are on the autism spectrum or find it challenging to shop in such a high-sensory environment.
From this week, every Wednesday from 3:30pm to 5:30pm, select Kmart stores will provide a low-sensory shopping experience for customers with reduced noise, lighting and distractions.
Some of the changes include:
Store lighting will be dimmed
Kmart radio will be turned down
Register and scanner volumes will be reduced to the lowest level
Trolley collections will be limited
There will be minimal cages on the shop floor
No PA announcements will be made, unless it's an emergency
More team members will be available to support customers
The retailer shared that they engaged communities and advocacy organisations around Australia such as Ability Options, Aspect Australia and Autism New Zealand to bring this new initiative to life.
They also revealed they will have sensory maps available online to help customers plan their Kmart trips and create awareness around certain areas of the store that may have increased sensory stimuli.
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Quiet Space will be offered at these locations:
South Australia – Churchill, Mt Barker
Western Australia – Bunbury, Midland, Innaloo, Rockingham
New South Wales / ACT – Gungahlin, North Rocks, Pagewood, Minto
Victoria – Templestowe, Wangaratta, Sanctuary Lakes, Leopold
Queensland – Toowong, Victoria Point, Stafford, Oxenford, Morayfield, Arana Hills
Northern Territory – Coolalinga
Tasmania - Launceston, Newtown
New Zealand – Queenstown, Porirua, Hamilton Central, Botany
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