GRASS VALLEY and AUBURN, CA – BriarPatch Food Co-op is now offering Low-Sensory Shopping Hours at both stores, Wednesdays 7-9am. This time features noise and light reduction, allowing for more peaceful shopping that’s easier on the senses. We’re letting folks know via social media, our website and extra signage outside our stores.
Noise-Reducing Actions Include: The overhead paging system and music are turned off, and volume on scales at registers are lowered or off as well. Walkie-talkie users will operate on low volume during that time and ear plugs and noise-cancelling earmuffs are available at Customer Services Desks. Outdoor landscaping work is not scheduled during these hours, in order to avoid parking lot noise from leaf blowers and other equipment.
Light-Reducing Actions Include: Overhead lights are dimmed, and shades are drawn where appropriate. Informational screens are turned off, except for messages advising shoppers of the availability of ear plugs and noise-cancelling earmuffs.
Responses to this quieter shopping time have been positive. Indeed, many have asked for additional hours with such accommodation.
Says Mike McCary, Senior Store Operations Manager, BriarPatch Food Co-op: “Offering Low-Sensory Shopping Hours gives us an opportunity to provide a more manageable option to the neurodiverse shoppers in our community. We want everyone to know how welcome they are at BriarPatch and how important we feel it is to meet people where they’re at. We’ll continue to evaluate and fine-tune the low-sensory experience as well as explore potential opportunities to increase the hours.”
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