Billa starts 'Silent Hour' for an inclusive shopping experience

Billa starts 'Silent Hour' for an inclusive shopping experience

a step towards social inclusion

The reality of life of people with autism is often challenging, especially in public spaces. The overwhelming presence of noise and light in supermarkets can be a significant burden for these people. Against this background, three Billa branches in Lower Austria and Vienna launched a pioneering initiative to improve the shopping experience for autistic people.

the "silent hour" in detail

In the Billa markets in Siegfried-Marcus-Straße in Biedermannsdorf (Mödling district), Bahnhofstraße 193 in Pitten (Neunkirchen district) and Sterngasse 3 in the 23rd Viennese district, the so-called "quiet hour" is dispensed with. This sensitive phase, some of which is determined from Monday to Friday, is intended to create a quieter and more pleasant shopping atmosphere. For the market in Biedermannsdorf, the silence takes place from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., while the market in Pitten from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. and the one in Vienna also takes care of the "Silent Hour" from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

importance of the initiative for the community

The introduction of these quiet times is perceived as a significant step towards a more inclusive society. Stefan Weinlich, Billa sales director in Vienna and Lower Austria, emphasizes the vision behind this concept: "We want to give people with autism the opportunity to shop in a pleasant and supportive environment." The Rainman’s Home Association, which was advisable to present the project, not only sees a relief for those affected, but also a step to promote autonomy and independence.

commitment to those affected

Anton Diestelberger, chairman of the Rainman’s Home Association, emphasizes that the implementation of such concepts is fundamental to improve the quality of life of people with autism. "It is important that we establish such offers in order to promote inclusion in all areas of life," says Diestelberger. The response to the "silent hour" will be observed in the coming weeks to evaluate the success and acceptance of this measure.

FAZIT

The pilot project of the "Brealfather Hour" in the Billa branches represents important progress in creating an inclusive environment for people with special needs. While the initiative is initially considered experimental, it could serve as a model for other retailers in the long term that consider similar steps to improve access to all customers.