Static, low-sensory image is used on TV walls during sensory-friendly hours in Walmart Canada stores. Credit: Wal-Mart Canada Corp/CNW Group.

Walmart Canada has initiated sensory-friendly shopping hours across its stores nationwide, aiming to foster a more inclusive environment.  

The move is part of the company’s commitment to accommodate customers who might experience sensory overload.  

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From store opening until 10am on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, all 403 Walmart stores in Canada will adjust their settings to offer a calmer shopping atmosphere and minimise potential sensory stimuli.  

This includes turning off in-store music and radio advertisements, halting announcements except in emergencies and displaying only static, low-sensory images on TV walls.  

Walmart Canada store operations head Joe Schrauder said: “This is such an important step we’re taking to create a more inviting and positive shopping experience for customers who experience sensory overload and their families. We want our stores to be a place where all customers and associates feel they belong.” 

Sensory sensitivity is more widespread than commonly acknowledged, with Sensory Friendly Solutions reporting that approximately one-third of the population may experience sensory overload.  

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The condition can make ordinary visual and auditory stimuli unbearable, leading to discomfort or frustration during shopping. 

Sensory Friendly Solutions founder and CEO Christel Seeberger said: “Sensory sensitivity and sensory overload are more common than you think. It can be experienced by your family, your friend, your co-workers, your customer and maybe even you.  

“And as a person with lived experience, I know it can stop people from living everyday life. Sensory-friendly environments and experiences make everyday life more accessible, inclusive and invite more people to participate and belong. And that’s why change in a busy, noisy, bright world is needed.” 

In June 2024, Walmart introduced a hydrogen fuel cell-powered electric semi-truck to its fleet.