Supermarket chain Morrisons has launched a new nationwide initiative designed to tackle loneliness, particularly among state pensioners. From Wednesday 4th December 2025, the retailer is introducing special 'Talking Tills' across all its UK stores.
Creating Space for Conversation
The innovative scheme allows customers, especially older shoppers who may feel isolated, to opt for a checkout where they can have a relaxed conversation with a member of staff. The move is a direct response to the issue of loneliness, which can be particularly acute during the winter months and in the lead-up to Christmas.
David Scott, Corporate Affairs Director at Morrisons, explained the thinking behind the campaign. "At Morrisons, supporting the communities we serve is at the heart of what we do," he said. "We know that for many people, especially at this time of year, a simple conversation can make a real difference. The Talking Tills campaign is designed to create space for those meaningful moments, offering customers the chance to slow down and chat if they’d like to."
Partnership with Good Morning Britain
The rollout forms a key part of ITV's Good Morning Britain ‘1 Million Minutes’ campaign, now in its tenth year. The campaign encourages people to pledge their time to help those experiencing isolation.
Daniel Robinson, Editor of Good Morning Britain, highlighted the urgency of the issue. "This year feels more urgent than ever," he stated. "With rising prices in the shops and pressure on families, it’s so easy to feel disconnected. We all know what it feels like to feel lonely. And whether it’s a family member, a friend, a neighbour or a stranger, pledging just a few minutes of time can really make a difference."
Robinson praised the generosity of viewers over the past decade and expressed confidence that this December's campaign would be "something really special."
A Timely Intervention Before Christmas
The launch comes at a critical time of year. While Christmas is often a period of celebration, it can also amplify feelings of loneliness and disconnection for many. Morrisons, which competes with rivals like Tesco, Sainsbury's, Asda, Aldi, and Lidl, hopes its initiative will foster genuine human connection during what can be a difficult season.
The Talking Tills are optional, ensuring customers who wish for a faster transaction are not inconvenienced. The focus is squarely on providing a welcoming, social opportunity for those who would value it, making the supermarket visit about more than just groceries.
