German Retailers Introduce "Stille Stunde" for Noise-Free Shopping

A growing number of retail chains in Germany are introducing designated periods during which customers can shop without music, noise, and bright lights. The trend is known as the "Stille Stunde" (quiet hour). The initiative responds to shoppers who find conventional retail environments overwhelming, including people with autism and other sensory sensitivities. Participating stores dim their lighting, turn off background music, and reduce other ambient noise during these set times. The practice is spreading across the German retail sector as more chains adopt the format. The development was reported by Süddeutsche Zeitung in its culture section.