Asda Scotland relaunches Happy to Chat initiative
Asda Scotland delivery drivers wear ‘Happy to Chat about the game’ badges to help tackle loneliness during summer of sport
Article Source: Asda
Last Updated: 19 June 2024 14:06
Ahead of the busy sports calendar this summer, Asda has relaunched it’s ‘Happy to Chat’ initiative, which offers its delivery drivers in Scotland the option to add a ‘Happy to Chat about the game’ badge to their uniform to let customers know they’re happy to have a quick chat with them whilst their shopping is being delivered.
The ‘Happy to Chat’ initiative first launched as a trial in conjunction with the Royal Voluntary Service, after it was recognised that the drivers formed a lifeline for some people throughout the covid pandemic, with almost a quarter (23%) of customers admitting they were only interacting with people once a week - many of whom were delivery drivers.
The retailer’s Community Tracker, which looks at how customers, community groups and colleagues want to support their local communities, revealed that 60% of people surveyed think more needs to be done to combat loneliness and social isolation, with the elderly called out as the group most in need of support.
To encourage conversation and interaction amongst its older customer base, the Happy to Chat scheme has re-launched as part of Asda’s wider campaign across the Summer, which aims to unite all ages, especially those who love sport whether it’s football, tennis or cricket.
Asda store and grocery home shopping colleagues will have the option to wear 'Happy to Chat about the game' badges, prompting any customers who fancy a natter to chat to colleagues about the score or the upcoming game while getting their groceries.
John Gregory, Delivery Driver at Asda Tain, has worked at the store since it opened in 2012 and has proudly been wearing the badge during his shifts. John said: “When we initially launched the Happy to Chat badges to combat isolation during the pandemic we had such a positive response, especially from our older customers. I’m really pleased we have a twist on the badges so we can kick off a conversation whether that’s about the game or just to ask them how they are. I know from experience that even just having a few minutes chat with someone whilst you’re delivering their shopping can have a such a positive impact on their day.”
David Hills, Asda’s Chief Customer Officer said: “We first trialled the Happy to Chat badges as part of the Covid pandemic in 2000 and quickly made them a permanent fixture for our drivers’ to wear. This summer, we want to ensure we are keeping the conversations going with our older customers, especially as one of our drivers maybe the only person they interact with that day. This badge is a symbol of our colleagues continued friendly and approachable service which can make such a difference to those that don’t have much contact with others. We want to make sure that whether it’s in our stores, at the doorstep or in the community – we’re here for customers this summer.”
In addition to the badges, Asda stores in Scotland will be hosting Nanzones throughout June, either in their stores or local communities to celebrate the summer of sport. With many fan spaces not catering for the older generation, Asda are working with the community groups to bring them together to feel welcome and comfortable with otherwise many ending up following the games alone at home.
Each Nanzone will give local elderly people the chance to unite over food, drink and fandom and are organised locally by Asda’s Community Champions. The events will be completely free to attend and the community space will be decked out with decorations and refreshments and even half time bingo.
Sponsored Links
Latest Lanarkshire News
Christmas is officially here... the IRN BRU Carnival launches for the festive season
Today, Friday 20 December, the IRN-BRU Carnival officially opens to the public, bringing all the fun of the fair to Glasgow's SEC for the 105th year!
READ MORE
Housebuilder lays career foundations for Lanarkshire pupils with Christmas design competition
Pupils at Jackton Primary and Stepps Primary School have been given a glimpse of a career in construction, thanks to Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes' latest Scotland-wide Christmas competition.
READ MORE
Wicked fans in Scotland invited to special Sing Along screenings at Vue this Boxing Day
After becoming one of the most popular big screen releases of 2024, Vue is excited to announce that an extra special sing-along version of Wicked is heading to the big screen this Boxing Day.
READ MORE
Funding win marks anniversary of Mackintosh acquisition
A generous package of funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund has been pledged to the National Trust for Scotland to celebrate the genius of Charles Rennie Mackintosh and Margaret Macdonald.
READ MORE
Caledonian Sleeper announces winners of photography competition celebrating UK beauty spots
Caledonian Sleeper has announced the winners of its photography competition aimed at celebrating the country's most scenic locations on the overnight train's iconic route.
READ MORE
Garden Centre invites budding indoor gardeners to its stores
Dobbies Garden Centres is kicking off the new year on a green note, offering two free workshops at its Scottish stores this January.
READ MORE
Ticketmaster announces Breakthrough 2025 list
Ticketmaster has unveiled its much-anticipated Breakthrough 2025 list, highlighting the brightest up-and-coming stars set to shape the live music scene in 2025.
READ MORE
Blooming Fabulous! The Scottish Garden Festival arrives in 2025!
This family-friendly festival takes place in the spacious and scenic Hamilton Park Racecourse, offering a perfect setting for all ages to enjoy.
READ MORE
Crossbasket Castle announces grand opening date of its new luxury development
Crossbasket Castle will deliver one of Scotland’s newest and most exciting five-star hospitality experiences, with a unique restaurant by Michelin Star Chef Michel Roux.
READ MORE
Biffy Clyro, Young Fathers & Callum Beattie among winners at inaugural Scottish Live Music Awards
The Scottish Live Music Awards (SLMA) celebrated the best of Scotland's vibrant live music scene on Thursday night during a prestigious ceremony at Glasgow's Classic Grand Ballroom.
READ MORE
Dogstar Theatre brings Gideon Mack from page to stage
James Robertson's 2006 best-selling novel will be brought to life in early 2025 with a stage adaptation of The Testament of Gideon Mack from Dogstar Theatre Company.
READ MORE
Iconic soft drink is hitting the road with the festive truck the nation has been waiting for
The battle of festive cola trucks has already kicked off between Lidl and Coke - but now the country's most iconic soft drink, IRN-BRU, has joined in!
READ MORE
itison founder calls for action to help children who will have nothing this winter
Founder of Scottish business, itison, Oli Norman, has spoken out about the 'devastating' level of poverty in Scotland this festive season.
READ MORE
Splash into 2025 with New Year challenge to transform lives
A unique swimming challenge is inviting swimmers to set personal goals and raise funds for a life-changing hydrotherapy pool on behalf of leading disability charity, Capability Scotland.
READ MORE
Cold water reset retreats with Sophie Hellyer debut at Marine Troon
Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts launches new series - 'Adventure weekends with Marine & Lawn'.
READ MORE
Enjoy the best of Belfast at Christmas with Stena Line
A beautiful city with a rich history and a giant adventure to be found around every corner, there is no shortage of incredible festive experiences to enjoy in Belfast.
READ MORE
Scottish artist Jasleen Kaur wins Turner Prize 2024
Jasleen Kaur, whose exhibition Alter Altar at Tramway uses a vintage Ford Escort, worship bells and Irn-Bru to celebrate the Scottish Sikh community, has won this year's Turner Prize.
READ MORE
TRNSMT reveals superstar first acts for Glasgow Green 2025
50 Cent, Biffy Clyro, Snow Patrol, The Script, Fontaines D.C. and Gracie Abrams are included among the much-anticipated first wave of artists announced for Scotland's biggest music event.
READ MORE
Christmas Dinner bookings surge at Crutherland House
Crutherland House Hotel & Spa has reported a remarkable rise in bookings for Christmas lunch, highlighting a growing trend of families seeking the magic of dining out this festive season.
READ MORE
Loch Lomond Shores Christmas Festival is a Christmas cracker this year!
A family rollercoaster, giant snow globe, children's rides, stalls, street food and a packed live entertainment schedule makes Loch Lomond Shores FREE Christmas festival the perfect Christmas day out!
READ MORE
Brewer gives away free pints to celebrate mockumentary launch
Scottish brewer Innis & Gunn lifts the lid on the beer industry with a mockumentary starring real employees and comedians Paul Dockery and Katie McKenzie.
READ MORE
Family festive fun at the National Museum of Rural Life
Celebrate the season with festive family fun at the National Museum of Rural Life this December.
READ MORE
Christmas tree season arrives at Dobbies
Dobbies Garden Centres is marking the official start of the 2024 festive season with its delivery of 50,000 real Christmas trees, available at stores across the UK now.
READ MORE
Glasgow music festival The Reeling announces extended 2025 dates and performances from Dougie Maclean, Eddi Reader and Valtos
A popular trad music festival is set to return in 2025 – and it's adding an extra night due to demand!
READ MORE
Final date added as 30,000 expected at biggest itison Drive In Movies Christmas
itison Drive In Movies Christmas adds final date after unprecedented demand with tickets for Elf & Love Actually on sale on Wednesday 27th November at 7.30am.
READ MORE
Revolutionary swim teaching tool launches in Scotland
A pioneering visual teaching tool has launched across Scotland, making swimming lessons more accessible to everyone.
READ MORE
Festive favourites back on the big screen at Vue in Scotland
To mark the countdown to Christmas, some of the most loved holiday classics are being brought back to the big screen at Vue venues in Scotland this festive season.
READ MORE
Asda Foundation supports lonely over 60s this Christmas
Asda and Asda Foundation pledges almost £1 million to help combat loneliness and isolation in the older generation this festive period through its 'Don't be Gnome Alone this Christmas' campaign.
READ MORE
IKEA Christmas tree offer launching in Scotland this month
IKEA is giving shoppers a £20 voucher for every real tree purchased for £29 in its Scottish stores from 23rd November – with pre-orders available now.
READ MORE
Aldi Scotland is set to sell the cheapest real Christmas trees this festive season
Aldi Scotland announces the return of its freshly cut Nordmann Fir trees, with prices starting from just £13.99.
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links