Retail / news

Sephora Expands Quiet Hours Globally for Sensory-Friendly Shopping

Sephora is rolling out its Quiet Hours initiative worldwide, offering sensory-friendly shopping environments to better support neurodivergent and sensory-sensitive customers.

Sephora first tested Quiet Hours in 2025 across 32 stores in eight markets. The pilot was developed with input from the retailer's neurodiverse customer community and in collaboration with expert organizations Open Inclusion and Purposeful Futures, as well as internal employee resource groups.

The trial yielded strong results: most neurodivergent shoppers reported that Quiet Hours significantly improved their experience, and 90% of all customers said the initiative makes Sephora stores more inclusive and welcoming for all.

Chloe Matharu of Purposeful Futures noted in a company release that what began as a response to the needs of neurodivergent beauty fans evolved into an opportunity to reimagine retail environments for many who find them challenging. She added that Sephora is setting a new industry standard where the most powerful innovations are those designed for inclusion.

Sephora is now extending Quiet Hours to stores worldwide, though the company has not disclosed a timeline or the total number of locations. The move underscores a growing recognition in retail that accommodating diverse sensory needs is key to creating a welcoming shopping experience.