Sensory-Friendly Shopping for Families: Autism Initiatives in Asia

For parents and caregivers of autistic children in Hong Kong and Asia, navigating busy, crowded, and noisy retail environments can be overwhelming. Sensory processing differences, which are common among many in the autistic community, heighten sensitivity to lights, sounds, and smells. This often makes traditional shopping experiences stressful or even impossible.

Fortunately, businesses across the region and beyond are introducing autism-friendly initiatives to create more inclusive and welcoming spaces. One increasingly popular solution is “quiet hours” (or “sensory hours”)—designated periods where stores reduce sensory stimuli like bright lights and loud music. These initiatives offer neurodivergent individuals a calmer and more manageable shopping experience.

Sensory-Friendly Retail Leaders: Global and Regional Examples

Walmart’s Pioneering Efforts

In the US and Puerto Rico, Walmart stores have implemented sensory-friendly hours by dimming lights, turning off music, and displaying static images on TV walls. This initiative, which began as a pilot program, has since expanded to provide neurodivergent shoppers with the calm they need to enjoy their shopping experiences.

LEGO’s Comprehensive Approach

LEGO is a leader in inclusivity and sensory-friendly initiatives, closely connecting with the autism community. Its toys are widely used in autism-related therapies, and the company has implemented a range of policies to make its stores and attractions more inclusive.

LEGO’s initiatives include:

• Sensory Bags: These include noise-reducing headphones, fidget tools, and visual cue cards to support neurodivergent shoppers.
• KultureCity Certification: LEGO stores have partnered with KultureCity, an organization promoting accessible spaces for individuals with sensory needs.

“We hope that the changes to our stores, publications, and family attractions will have a positive impact and help embrace the diverse needs and strengths of our fans globally,” said Colette Burke, Chief Commercial Officer at LEGO Group.  “There will always be more to do, and we’re committed to working with fans and experts to implement initiatives that can help make a difference in building a more inclusive world.”

UNIQLO’s People-Oriented Campaign

Hwee Lee, Senior Director (Sustainability) at UNIQLO Singapore, views inclusivity in retail as a long-term commitment rather than a one-off campaign. In 2022, the brand introduced the UNIQLO Access Initiative at one of its stores. This initiative includes hour-long assisted shopping sessions every Thursday, where pre-registered customers with special needs, including individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), can browse the collections in a calming and supportive environment.

The initiative is part of a broader ecosystem emphasizing human support as a central element. UNIQLO is also committed to increasing the representation of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in its workforce and has implemented comprehensive training programs for its staff.

"We have collaborated with SPD, our disability expert partner, to co-create a curriculum on disability awareness. Through this, our staff are able to identify different types of disabilities, be it physical, sensorial, or cognitive disorders, and consequently deliver the appropriate service," said Lee.

By 2025, more than 100 staff members in Singapore had completed this training. The knowledge gained enables them to provide thoughtful, personalized assistance to individuals requiring additional support—not just during sensory hours but throughout all store operations. Lee added:

Autism-Friendly Malls: Malaysia Leading the Way

Sunway Putra Mall

Located in Kuala Lumpur, Sunway Putra Mall is Malaysia’s first autism-friendly mall. Its initiatives include:

• Sensory-Friendly Settings: Dimmed lighting and subdued music every Tuesday.
• Calm Rooms and Sensory Walls: Available for customers to recharge.
• Staff Training: Regular programs for tenant stores to ensure assistance is always available.

The Sunway Group has expanded these autism-friendly features to other properties, creating a network of inclusive retail spaces throughout Malaysia.

Creating Inclusive Shopping Experiences for Families in Asia

As more businesses in Asia prioritize inclusivity, shopping environments are becoming safer, calmer, and more welcoming for neurodivergent individuals. Parents and caregivers of autistic children can support these sensory-friendly initiatives by providing feedback, raising awareness, and driving further progress.