Asda delivery drivers help combat customer isolation

Robert Muirhead (24), is one of Asda Grangemouth’s delivery drivers taking part in the Happy to Chat initiative, letting customers know he is more than happy to have a conversation when delivering products to their door.

Robert said: “I went to an old lady last week and she almost had me in tears when she said I was the only person she'd seen in nine days. When I started to chat to her, she was so happy and she said I'd made her day, which made me really happy as well.”

Staff do not need to be amazing raconteurs – just willing to listen, find some sort of common ground and engage in a bit of friendly banter.

“The stuff I was talking about was just like what she was watching on the TV,” said Robert. “She said she couldn't wait till later that night as EastEnders was on and, because I like EastEnders, we talked about that.

“She just kept chatting away – I was really thankful I made her day. I got back in my van and I just said to myself, even if it's just for a split second if you make someone's day and make someone smile that is absolutely worth it.

“I know how it feels to be lonely and I never want anyone else to feel like that. Our customers do appreciate it when we can stop and chat. I always greet my customers with a friendly smile and ask them how their day's been and just engage in normal conversation.

“A lot of customers probably think we are too busy to talk, but we always have time for them."

Asda home shopping support manager, Lori McLay, said Robert and his delivery driver colleagues were happy to take time out to chat with customers.

She added: “With loneliness rising, having a chat can make the difference for some customers who may not see anyone else. I was handing out the Happy to Chat badges to our drivers, but Robert came up specially to ask for his.

“He's such a happy and talkative guy and the customers love him.”