Imagine this: you’re in the bustling heart of Valletta, Republic Street, ready to explore the vibrant shops. But the noise, the lights, the crowd – it’s all a bit overwhelming. Now, imagine you could have the same shopping experience, but in a quieter, less stimulating environment. That’s exactly what GO has introduced with their sensory-friendly hours across retail outlets.

Sensory-friendly hours are dedicated time slots where retailers adjust the environment to make it more comfortable for people with sensory sensitivities. This could mean dimming lights, turning down music, and reducing crowd levels. For Malta, this is a significant step towards creating a more inclusive retail experience.

GO, one of Malta’s leading retail chains, has rolled out this initiative across all their outlets, including their flagship store in Valletta. The company is committed to making shopping accessible to everyone, regardless of their needs. “We believe in creating a shopping experience that caters to everyone,” says GO’s Retail Manager, Mario Vella.

Sensory-friendly hours will be held every Tuesday morning, from 9 am to 11 am. During these hours, GO will ensure that lights are dimmed, music is turned off, and staff will be briefed to maintain a quiet, calm environment.

This initiative aligns with Malta’s ongoing efforts to become more accessible and inclusive. From improving public transport to enhancing accessibility in public spaces, Malta is actively working towards becoming a more inclusive society. GO’s sensory-friendly hours are a testament to this commitment, extending it to the retail sector.

For many, this could mean the difference between being able to shop independently and having to rely on others. It’s a small change that can make a big difference. “It’s about creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and comfortable,” adds Vella.

GO encourages customers to support this initiative by spreading the word and using the dedicated shopping hours. They also welcome feedback to help improve the service. “We want to make this the best it can be, and we can only do that with the help of our customers,” says Vella.

So, the next time you’re in Valletta, why not pop into GO during their sensory-friendly hours? It might just change your shopping experience for the better.