A heatwave in the UK is seeing forecasters predict record-breaking temperatures for Britain's hottest day and in response, Iceland supermarket launched a Chill Out Zone to help people beat the heat. Evan Shahriar, the manager of Iceland’s Islington location on Chapel Market, created a customer-cooling station in the freezer aisle. Complete with deck chairs, a cooling mist and complimentary ice pops, the Chill Out Zone is also a place for pets to find relief and get a drink of chilled water.
While the idea of popping into a store with a chilled idea isn't a new one to shoppers, this Chill Out Zone helps to make customers feel more than welcome. "We decided we might as well go the extra mile and create an official chill-out zone so they don’t need to feel guilty. The response has been amazing," says Shahriar.
Cool-Off Supermarket Aisles
Iceland's Chill Out Zone Provides Relief from Extreme Heat
Trend Themes
1. Cool-off Supermarket Aisles - Retail stores adapt to climate-related challenges and create innovative cooling solutions for customers during heatwaves.
2. Pet-friendly Chill Zones - Businesses incorporate pet-friendly amenities in their establishments, meeting the growing demand for convenient pet care while catering to customers needs.
3. Experiential Retail Spaces - Retailers enhance the in-store experience to foster brand loyalty, attract more customers, and stay ahead of the competition.
Industry Implications
1. Climate-controlled Solutions - Innovative climate-control technologies to help businesses and facilities adapt to extreme temperatures and conditions.
2. Pet Care Services - Emergence of various pet care services that cater to the diverse needs of pet owners while ensuring their pets' comfort and well-being.
3. Retailtainment - Combination of retail and entertainment experiences, which allow businesses to create more engaging and immersive environments for their customers.