Sephora calls the idea “simple but meaningful,” saying the tranquil ambiance will support customers who find traditional retail environments uncomfortable, while also creating a more peaceful shopping experience for anyone who wants one.
A Calmer, Gentler Shopping Shift
Sephora rolled out its “Quiet Hours” pilot program in 32 stores across the eight global markets where the brand operates.
The program was developed with input from the neurodiversity community, including Open Inclusion, Purposeful Futures, and Sephora employee resource groups. Positive feedback from participating shoppers fueled the brand’s decision to expand Quiet Hours in locations across the globe.
The company has not yet released details on store locations or schedules. Other large retailers that offer sensory-friendly hours include Walmart and Target, as do smaller beauty retailers Lush and Superdrug.
“Quiet Hours at Sephora is one meaningful step in our ongoing commitment to building more welcoming environments for our employees, consumers, and communities,” says Sephora's global Chief Marketing Officer, Deborah Yeh, “and we know there is still much more to learn and do.
“We’re proud of this step forward, and equally committed to continuing to listen, learn, and grow alongside the communities we serve,” Yeh says.