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 Glasgow News
Glasgow Film Festival supports 50 next generation filmmakers across three star studded talent labs
Lab mentors and partners include Oscar-winning and nominated directors, leading animation studios, and executives from Netflix, BFI, Aardman, and Curzon.
READ MORE
Caledonia Gladiators launches most exclusive seat in Scottish sport in aid of GCH Charity
Scotland's basketball franchise Caledonia Gladiators has launched a unique new VIP experience – thought to be the most exclusive sporting seat in the country – in aid of charity.
READ MORE
Shipbuilding heritage, tall tales & Scottish cuisine make a tasty tune
Since launching in 2019, the Shipyard Bards, Tall Tales and Dinner events held at Glasgow's Mharsanta restaurant have repeatedly sold out.
READ MORE
Dr. Gillian Shirreffs Book Signing for Elephant at Waterstones Byres Road
Gillian Shirreffs has raised over £30,000 for charity through her writing, and she'll be signing copies of Elephant on Saturday 13th December at Waterstones Byres Road.
READ MORE
Silverburn unwraps a festive December of entertainment
Silverburn, Glasgow's leading retail and leisure destination, has unveiled a packed diary full of events this December, as guests get ready for Christmas.
READ MORE
Celtic Connections brought surprise morning gigs to coffee shops across Glasgow at the weekend
Celtic Connections surprised Saturday morning coffee goers with live pop-up gigs across Glasgow, bringing emerging artists into unexpected spaces.
READ MORE
Panto Pays: festive theatre season delivers economic boost
As part of Glasgow 850's Get You In Panto Town celebration, new figures reveal the significant economic contribution of Glasgow's beloved pantomime season to the city's economy.
READ MORE
Ring in Hogmanay with darts, dancing, and bottomless pizza
If your New Year's resolution is to have more fun, start early at Flight Club!
READ MORE
The oldest bar and restaurant in Glasgow unveils spectacular makeover
Sloans, has unveiled a spectacular festive transformation following a £300,000 investment that has reinvented the 228-year-old venue inside and out.
READ MORE
Celebrate South Asian cinema this December with a selection of releases at Vue
There’s plenty for fans of South Asian cinema to enjoy at Vue this December, with a number of titles heading to the big screen.
READ MORE
Is Glasgow Green Santa the coolest in the UK
Some visitors reckon that Santa's cousin who is currently in residence at Winter Wonderland at Glasgow Green is the coolest of Santas.
READ MORE
Toys the season to be Jolly! Kids in Glasgow can win the entire DreamToys list this Christmas
Children in Glasgow are in for a festive treat this year, as a number of local retailers have announced they will be giving away all 15 toys featured on this year's coveted DreamToys list.
READ MORE
Trust calls for the home of Scottish football to be saved from an own goal
National Trust for Scotland has added its voice to those seeking assurances about the preservation of the first ever Hampden Park in Glasgow.
READ MORE
Cocktails and Champagne at new Luss Distillery
The newly opened Luss Distillery has announced its first events ahead of the festive season.
READ MORE
Glasgow shoppers slow down for a calmer Black Friday at The Social Hub
Glasgow shoppers embraced “slow shopping” as The Social Hub hosted its Rethink Black Friday market, offering a calm alternative that spotlighted local makers.
READ MORE
Tis the season: Meet Home Alone inspired characters at Glasgow Fort
Christmas is in full swing at Glasgow Fort, with festive character visits, the Christmas market and family activities now underway to help get shoppers of all ages into the festive spirit.
READ MORE
Family run Jackton Distillery unveils bumper festive programme for 2025
Jackton Distillery, the family run Lowland distillery behind the RAER whisky, spirits and wine portfolio, has announced a packed Christmas calendar for December 2025.
READ MORE
First Scottish KENJI store now open at Silverburn
East Asian-inspired lifestyle brand KENJI has opened the doors to its first Scottish store as it joins the impressive brand lineup at Silverburn.
READ MORE
Name the Loganair Christmas puffin and win a family adventure
Loganair, the UK’s leading regional airline, has launched a new festive competition to name the puffin starring in its emotional Christmas advert.
READ MORE
Festive fun on the farm at the National Museum of Rural Life
Celebrate the season with festive fun for the whole family at the National Museum of Rural Life.
READ MORE
Braehead celebrates bright young business stars this Christmas
Scotland's premier retail destination, Braehead Shopping Centre, today announce that this Christmas they will again welcome the Young Enterprise Christmas Trade Fayre.
READ MORE
Breakout Scots star urges young people to discover new artists IRL at Celtic Connections coffee pop ups
Katie Gregson-MacLeod is urging young Glaswegians to discover new music IRL as Celtic Connections brings free pop-up gigs to Patricia's x SLB, Through The House and Black Pine this Saturday.
READ MORE
Loch Lomond Shores Christmas Festival is a Christmas cracker this year!
A family rollercoaster, giant snow globe, rides, stalls, street food and live entertainment makes Loch Lomond Shores FREE Christmas festival the perfect Christmas day out for all the family!
READ MORE
Calum Bowie gives Barrowland call up to 2 rising stars for landmark 5th December show
Calum Bowie has invited two fresh local talents to support him at his upcoming landmark show in December at The Barrowlands!
READ MORE
Partick Film Festival returns in January with special anniversary screening of Rob Roy
Partick Film Festival returns in January with a range of events including a special 30th anniversary screening of Rob Roy, followed by a Q&A with the director Michael Caton-Jones.
READ MORE
Somewhere by Nico Launches Festive Cocktail Experience
This festive season, Glasgow and Edinburgh relevellers can relive the magic of Christmas past as Somewhere by Nico unveil a brand-new immersive experience!
READ MORE
Beatson Cancer Charity Ambassadog Baxter leads the way at Santa Dash 2025
Beatson Cancer Charity is thrilled to announce that our Ambassadog, Baxter, will be taking part in this year's Santa Dash on Sunday 7th December!
READ MORE
Zizzi celebrates a fresh era with a new menu and app, by giving 132 people free pasta for one year
Zizzi has introduced a new food & drink menu across all its restaurants, launched a brand-new Zizzi app, and is giving 132 people free pasta for one year.
READ MORE
Festive Season at Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts Collection
Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts Collection have launched some new offerings designed for memorable Christmas stays, spectacular Hogmanay celebrations, and cozy winter escapes.
READ MORE
From The Gannet to Eleven Fifty Five: Peter McKenna announces new Argyle Street restaurant
Peter McKenna, chef-owner of The Gannet in Glasgow, along with Kevin Dow, are set to open a new restaurant, Eleven Fifty Five, in its place in Finnieston early next year.
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links