Tesco to adapt supermarket for pensioners
Aug 28 2008 by Chris Robinson, The Journal
Shoppers welcome idea of adapting stope to help the elderly
OLDER people’s groups last night praised ideas which would make it easier for pensioners to shop independently.
John Berry, secretary of the North East Pensioners’ Association said a shopping trip could prove difficult for some.
The 74-year-old, of Brockley Whins, South Shields, said if accessibility was improved, things could only get better.
He said older people often had difficulty shopping during busy periods and simple things most take for granted could be a struggle.
Mr Berry said: “Things like putting a pound into a shopping trolley may seem like an easy thing to many, but getting it back out again if you have arthritis can be difficult.
“The consultation is quite interesting and anything like that has to be applauded.
“The Germans were noted for their engineering and progressive way of thinking years ago. I have no doubt it will do the store a bonus on the basis of word of mouth, they will feel the benefit after taking the recommendations of older people on board.
“A lot of people find that the number of customers at certain times of the day can be intensifying. It also allows more independence.”
Anne Marshall, chief officer with Age Concern Gateshead said: “I think anything that makes something more accommodating for everybody, not just older people, should be welcomed.”
Michael Kissman, from Tesco, said that while public consultation was ongoing, nothing was “set in stone”.
He said: “All of our stores cater for a range of people of different ages and abilities and all comply with disability legislations and are accommodating. But we are happy to listen to any feedback for this store.”
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German model
What the German store features:
:: Wider aisles for more time shopping.
:: Checkout counters with plenty of space to manoeuvre.
:: Shopping trolleys featuring magnifying glasses, seats, locking wheels for short rest breaks.
:: Smaller baskets with longer handles and wheels.
:: Magnifying glasses on labels.
:: Long metal steps running along edges to reach products.
:: Large signage.
:: Products labelled for singles.
:: Anti-slip synthetic flooring.
:: Senior section with comfy leather couches, taxi-on demand service, TV and water cooler
:: Massage chair, coffee and cake, cool beer on tap.
For previous stories on the development of Tesco's project, click on the links below:
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