Retail Briefing Session for Retailers

Creating a more inclusive shopping environment doesn’t need to be complicated or costly.

The Sensory Friendly Shopping Hour is a practical retail initiative designed to reduce sensory overload in-store during a designated trading period, helping neurodivergent customers and their families enjoy a calmer, more accessible shopping experience.

This initiative has been developed by the Shine Centre for Autism, in partnership with Cork Business Association, with input from the Rainbow Club Cork, which supports young people with Autism.

It is a low-cost, high-impact programme that can be implemented across all retail formats with minimal operational disruption.

Why Retailers Should Get Involved

Retail environments can be overwhelming for some customers due to bright lighting, noise, strong smells and crowded spaces. A small number of temporary adjustments can make a major difference.

Participating retailers benefit through:

• A More Inclusive Customer Experience
  Supporting Sensory-sensitive customers who may otherwise avoid in-store shopping.

• Stronger Brand Reputation
  Demonstrating a clear commitment to accessibility, inclusion, and community engagement.

• Increased Customer Loyalty
  Encouraging repeat visits from customers and families who actively seek supportive shopping environments.

• Easy Implementation
  No refits or major operational changes — just simple, manageable adjustments.

What the Initiative Involves

Participating stores will run a designated Sensory Friendly Shopping Hour, currently planned for Sunday mornings during the first hour of trade (regardless of store opening times).

During this hour, stores should aim to make small adjustments such as reducing sensory overload – sounds, lighting, smells etc, and have staff briefed and confident to assist a customer if needed. CBA, in partnership with SHINE and RAINBOW CLUB, will ensure all participating stores are fully briefed.

This is a straightforward and realistic initiative that works within normal retail operations.

It does not require:

• Permanent store redesigns or refurbishment

• Disruption to normal trading

• Staff to identify or diagnose customers

• Participation limited to children (it supports neurodivergent adults too)

Support & Guidance Provided

Retailers will not be expected to implement this alone.

Support includes:

• Guidance from the Shine Centre for Autism and Rainbow Club Cork

• Implementation assistance and staff infographics from Cork Business Association

• A structured model designed for rollout across multiple store formats

• Feedback mechanisms to support continuous improvement

Register for the Retail Briefing Session

Register now to take part and help make Cork City a more inclusive place to shop. Complete this form here, and CBA will be in touch with further details.