Learn about Sensory Inclusion at IRDC 2026 in Las Vegas

Popular beauty retailer Sephora recently announced the introduction of what it calls “Quiet Hours” at its stores globally. At scheduled times, lights and signage are dimmed, music volume is lowered and the number of scents in the air is reduced. This allows for a more inclusive retail environment for neurodivergent or sensory-sensitive shoppers who might be affected by sounds, lights and scents.

And Sephora is not alone in this inclusive implementation – other retailers such as Walmart, Target, Lush and Primark, among others, have also introduced some form of sensory-friendly hours at their stores.

Meg Lefeld, Director of Business Development at ZenGenius, knows firsthand the importance of inclusive environments. In 2022, Meg experienced a traumatic brain injury that changed the way she experienced retail. But why do people process sensory stimulation differently? And how can retailers better support neurodivergent or sensory-sensitive shoppers? These questions led her to research how the brain functions in highly stimulating retail environments.

At the International Retail Design Conference (IRDC) on Oct. 7, Meg will share what she has learned with real-world examples and research that uncovers how thoughtful sensory design can create more inclusive environments – while also giving retailers a competitive business advantage. 

After this session, you’ll never approach a store the same way again. Join Meg, along with hundreds of retailers and top industry leaders, at IRDC this fall in Las Vegas.