We live in a society where we want things to go as fast and as uncomplicated as possible. Internet purchases and some increasingly automated activities mean that little by little the human factor is giving way to certain daily activities. However, not everyone adapts well to this pattern of life.
The case of supermarkets. In recent years we have seen how some supermarkets have established themselves so-called ‘fast tellers’ or self-pay services to streamline the purchasing process. However, there is a chain called Dutch Jumbo (different from that of Chilean origin) that you have opted for the opposite option: installed slow boxes.
In Dutch they are called kletskassa. The literal translation of this initiative was something like this ‘talking box’a different way of customer service that the company has established 200 of its stores of the last year.
Twitter user Drik Janssen uploaded this decision to the networks through a publication that has become a whole viral phenomenon: “For people who like to talk, especially to help older people deal with loneliness.
The tweet made a big impact within hours. Proof of this are the 3.4 million impressions it has at the time of writing these lines, as well as more than 55,000 likes and 10,000 retweets.
“Magnificent success. Slowing life down to natural times is one of the big changes this civilization needs to make,” applauds one user.
“Congratulations on looking for the #Mental health of the elderly. It is the responsibility of the authorities and of society in general to monitor the human rights of this segment of the population”, comments another tweeter in the same direction.
Jumbo communications director Colette Cloosterman-Van Eerd explained to local media Dutch Newas that the main reason for these “slow boxes” was combat the loneliness of its customers and highlight the company’s social duty.
“Many people, especially older people, can feel lonely. As a family business and supermarket chain we play an important role in society. Our premises are a meeting place“, he indicated.
In addition, Jumbo also has areas where customers can have a coffee and chat within their premises.
The avant-garde
Source: Clarin
Mark Jones is a world traveler and journalist for News Rebeat. With a curious mind and a love of adventure, Mark brings a unique perspective to the latest global events and provides in-depth and thought-provoking coverage of the world at large.