Shopping delivery drivers are to wear special badges that say ‘happy to chat about the game’ this summer.
Ahead of what is set to be a busy summer of sport, with events such as Wimbledon, the Olympics, and of course, UEFA Euro 2024 – which has already kicked off, and is now well underway – in the calendar, one of the UK’s leading supermarket retailers has decided to relaunch its popular ‘Happy to Chat’ initiative over the next couple of months.
This means that Asda delivery drivers will be given the option to add a new element to their uniform, a badge with the words ‘Happy to Chat about the game’, so they can let customers know they’re up for having a quick chat with them about all the sporting action whilst their shopping is being delivered.
And it’s all in a bid to help tackle loneliness.
Shopping delivery drivers will wear ‘happy to chat about the game’ badges to help tackle loneliness / Credit: Asda
If you’re unfamiliar with Asda’s ‘Happy to Chat’ initiative, it was first launched as a trial back in November 2020, before being made a permanent fixture after it was recognised that delivery drivers formed a lifeline for some people throughout the COVID-19 pandemic – with almost a quarter (23%) of customers admitting they were only interacting with people once a week, many of whom were delivery drivers.
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But now, the supermarket has relaunched the scheme as part of a wider campaign aiming to unite people all ages this summer, especially those who love sport.
It comes after Asda already grabbed headlines last week with the launch of its dedicated ‘Nanzones’ – including one here in Manchester, at the Eastlands store – at more than 100 stores across the UK, which are designed especially for residents over the age of 65 to gather and watch the Euros together in a safe and supportive environment, instead of being at home on their own.
The retailer says its sport-themed twist on the ‘Happy to Chat’ initiative is all about “encouraging conversation and interaction” amongst its older customer base.
“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,” explained Asda’s Chief Customer Officer, David Hills, as the initiative relaunched this week.
“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.”
Featured Image – Asda
Shopping
Morrisons has launched a nationwide search for its first-ever Chief Doughnut Tester
Emily Sergeant
Today is National Doughnut Day, and to celebrate, Morrisons is on the look-out for one sweet treat fan to take on a new role.
That’s right – today (5 June) is National Doughnut Day, and Morrisons is officially on the hunt for the nation’s ultimate doughnut devotee with the launch of its brand-new (and delicious) role, The Chief Doughnut Tester – with all glaze enthusiasts, sprinkle connoisseurs, and jam-filled aficionados urged to get applying.
The search is on to crown one lucky fan who’ll take on the dream job of taste-testing their way through the supermarket‘s range of doughnuts.
The Chief Doughnut Tester is more than just a title, Morrisons says it’s ‘serious business’.
Morrisons has launched a nationwide search for its first-ever Chief Doughnut Tester / Credit: Morrisons
The new hire will be tasked with taste-testing doughnuts before they hit the shelves, giving verdicts on new flavours and textures, all in the name of research.
The role will also involve teaming up with Morrisons’ internal doughnut-expert team to develop new and limited-edition treats that’ll be in stores next year.
Crowned as the nation’s definitive doughnut authority, the selected winner won’t just earn the title of Chief Doughnut Tester, they’ll also receive the ultimate of sweet perks – a year’s free supply of Morrisons fresh doughnuts, which the retailer sells more than 1.1 million of weekly.
Aspiring Chief Doughnut Testers can apply on the Morrisons website here, by filling in a short 200-words about why’re the ideal candidate.
Applications close at midnight tonight (Friday 5 June), so you’ll need to be quick.
Featured Image – Annie Spratt (via Unsplash)
Shopping
One of Manchester’s biggest vintage shops to close after a decade
Daisy Jackson
One of the biggest and best vintage shops in Manchester has announced its imminent closure.
Thrift Shop, which is part of the legendary Cow Vintage family, has said that the landlord of its store has ‘chosen not to renew our lease’.
The beloved vintage shop has been in its spot just off Piccadilly Gardens for a decade, with colourful rails stuffed with pre-loved denim, coats, dresses, accessories, and more.
Ahead of its closure this week, Thrift Shop has announced details of a major closing down sale, aiming to get rid of all its stock.
Initially touted as two for £10 on all thrift items, they’ve now slashed prices even further and are offering three items for £10.
That does exclude their ‘premium’ items, where you can snap up big labels like Carhartt and Levi’s.
Sharing the sad news of its closure online, Thrift Shop Manchester wrote: “We are gutted to announce the closure of beloved Manchester store.
Thrift Shop Manchester is throwing a huge closing down sale
“Last week we found out our landlord chose not to renew our lease after over ten years in this unit.
“To bid our farewell, we’re doing a MASSIVE closing down sale to get rid of all stock !!!! All Thrift items will be 2 for £10 until our last trading day on 30th May!!
“We’ve absolutely loved serving you for all these years, so long, farewell and, as always, get thrifty.”
In the comments, fellow independent retailer Thunder Egg – which just had to move out of its Oldham Street store (but is still in Afflecks) – commented: “So sorry to hear this, retail landlords in Manchester are absolutely in their sh*tbag era right now.”
Thrift Shop Manchester will close for good on Saturday 30 May.
Emily Sergeant -
19th June 2024 
