Asda has extended its ‘Happy to Chat’ initiative, which will see delivery drivers in Enniskillen add a new element to their uniform: a ‘Happy to Chat’ badge to let customers know they are happy to have a chat with them whilst their shopping is being delivered.

The initiative first launched as a trial across the UK in November in conjunction with the Royal Voluntary Service, after it was recognised that the drivers formed a lifeline for some people throughout the pandemic.

Almost a quarter (23 per cent) of customers said they were only interacting with people once a week - many of whom were delivery drivers. After a positive response and uptake from drivers, Asda is now making the badges a permanent option for all of its 7,500 delivery drivers.

Delivery driver, Duwayne McManus, from Asda Enniskillen said:

“I have really noticed a big difference since we started wearing our ‘Happy to Chat’ badges. We all chat to the customers who want to anyway, but the badges help the customers know we are keen on having a bit of craic too!.

“It is especially helpful for our elderly customers, so they can have a catch up with us and see a friendly face – for some of them, it could be the only chat they have that day so we love to help out where we can.”

Vice President of Online Grocery at Asda, Simon Gregg, commented: “Many people are still feeling the impact of a lack of regular contact with friends and family, so it felt right to make our ‘Happy to Chat’ badges a permanent fixture to our drivers’ uniforms.

“We’re incredibly proud of all the work they do – and this badge is a symbol of their continued friendly and approachable service which can make such a difference to those that don’t have much contact with others."