As of 2026, the brick-and-mortar shopping experience is not only still alive – it is making a comeback according to Forbes. A study of last year’s shopping trends by Capital One showed that 81% of retail sales occurred in brick-and-mortar sales, representing $5.9 trillion in sales compared to $1.3 trillion in online sales.
Main attractions to brick-and-mortar shopping are unique experiences that cannot be found online, creating relationships with retailers, understanding their brand as an ethical and inclusive organization, and experiencing products IRL (in real life).
In response, various immersive, social, and experiential trends have begun to emerge to create memorable experiences that help them build relationships with their shoppers. As a part of these trends, some businesses within the retail and hospitality industry have begun to offer sensory-friendly shopping hours and events.
Sensory-friendly shopping focuses on limiting sensory overload by reducing noise, bright lights, and pushy sales tactics. These experiences were developed to appeal to Autistic shoppers and parents of children with autism. They have been found to appeal to people living with a variety of other disabilities as well, including additional neurodiverse and mental health disabilities and conditions such as chronic migraines. Even employees have found sensory-friendly initiatives to create a calmer environment which reduces stress, resulting in the potential for increased efficiency and reduced turnover during those hours.
Expand your customer base: Sensory-friendly shopping experiences welcome this community into your businesses. Research shows that 64% of Autistic shoppers avoid traditional stores due to triggering environmental factors. Sensory-friendly experiences address overstimulation, stress, and anxiety for the individual, parents, and caregivers.
Increase dwell time: When shoppers are relaxed, their “dwell time” (time spent in the store) increases, often translating to increased spending. Removing stress gives Autistic shoppers the opportunity to independently browse retail spaces, developing experiences equitable to their peers. With the added benefit of social spaces, shopping can become a meaningful part of how they engage with the community.
Build brand loyalty: Adopting sensory-friendly initiatives strengthens a company’s reputation within the community and builds positive relations. They demonstrate a commitment to accessibility and social responsibility. Families in particular feel more supported when these programs are in place, vocally sharing that they are more likely to return. This builds long-term loyalty and creates community advocates who act as ambassadors of your brand.
Gain a competitive advantage: Sensory-friendly retail environments offer an inviting and engaging alternative to online shopping that cannot be replicated in a digital environment. Since many sensory-friendly accommodations require little to no additional spending the potential return on investment is significant.
Recognized brands such as AMC Theaters, Walmart, Chuck E. Cheese, and Barnes & Noble are emerging as leaders in offering sensory-friendly experiences to their customers. This has led to the emergence of sensory-friendly shopping guides for families and Autistic people. By prioritizing accessibility and creating a more welcoming environment, businesses contribute to a cultural shift. This emphasizes the importance of understanding the experiences of all communities served and fostering an environment that embraces engagement diversity.