Tesco trial innovative new trolley seat for disabled children

Working with disabled product designers, Firefly by Leckey and trolley manufacturer Wanzl, Tesco have begun trials of specialist trolley seats for children with disabilities.

Stores in Faversham, Kettering and Bury St Edmunds have been selected to trial the new trolley design.

Local communications manager for Tesco, Fflur Sheppard said: “We’re always looking for ways to make it easier and simpler for our customers to shop with us. We know that families sometimes find it difficult to bring disabled children with them when they go shopping, which is why we’re working with Wanzl and Firefly by Leckey. Together, we hope to make it that little bit easier for our customers to visit our stores.”

A family try the new trolley design in Tesco Extra, Kettering

The need for specialist trolley seats is one recognised by families with children with disabilities and special needs. The current lack of adapted and adequate facilities means many families are unable to bring their children shopping with them – resulting in both children and families being deprived of valuable time spent together.

Commenting on the news trolley design, Faversham parent Samantha Bowen said: “I'm delighted that Tesco's are trialling the new ‘Go To Trolley’ from Firefly by Leckey, it's design means that I can take my child food shopping again and this just helps keep a little bit of our life 'normal'.

“Disability has many barriers that you wouldn't know about until faced with them. These small changes can make a big difference to lots of people.”

The new seats are fitted with support straps, a five point harness, adjustable head support and lateral support that is specifically designed for children with disabilities.

If the trial proves to be a success, the seats will be introduced throughout all stores across the UK.