In some stores, “shopping companions” accompany older customers. A free and practical service, which also allows beautiful moments of exchange between generations. Report in a department store in Montauban.
Marcel is more of a greedy type. At 79, he lives alone and takes his time shopping. Today he discovers a new free service in his supermarket: shopping companions. A student is employed for a few hours a week to accompany customers who wish to do so. “As I live alone, it’s good from time to time to be able to chat”says the customer of the store. “We don’t feel like we’re working. We create a bond, we socialize”adds Anaïs Gene, 19, student.
A dozen brands have subscribed
In this supermarket, three shopping companions are present on Monday and Friday mornings. Discuss, guide, lend a hand, the service is accessible to everyone, but the elderly are the ones who need it the most. A company from Perpignan (Pyrénées-Orientales) is on the initiative of the Compagnons d’Emplettes. A dozen brands throughout France have already taken out a subscription. A small investment, to take care of loyal customers.
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