Carrefour, owned and operated by Majid Al Futtaim in Egypt, has partnered with Merge, the leading information technology company specialising in innovative technological solutions for people with disabilities, to launch simultaneous sign language interpretation through “Merge- Interpreter Sign Language “platform for those with hearing impairments. Carrefour is introducing this free-of-charge at five of its stores as the first retailer in the market to provide a service for customers with hearing disabilities.
“Merge- Interpreter Sign Language “platform designed with the latest technology, the service provides customers with access to sign language interpretation to help build a more integrated community across Carrefour’s supermarkets and hypermarkets. Tablets will be installed within Carrefour stores, at which customers can scan the QR codes to access video calls with Merge certified Sign Language interpreters for inquiries regarding prices and promotions. This partnership aims to enhance the customer journey, providing equal opportunities and contributing to the development of society.
Philippe Peguilhan, Country Manager of Majid Al Futtaim Retail in Egypt, stated: “Carrefour is highly committed to providing equal opportunities for its customers through every experience. By partnering with Merge, we can continue to deliver convenient, seamless shopping experiences that ensure an inclusive environment for all. The partnership is also a testament to Carrefour’s unwavering contribution towards the communities in which it operates, constantly identifying new and innovative ways to enhance its offerings and drive positive change within the society.”
Ramy Qaddoumi, Founder and CEO of Merge Technology, said: “We are pleased to launch simultaneous sign language interpretation through “Merge- Interpreter Sign Language” platform, in five Carrefour stores across Egypt for all shoppers with hearing impairments, launching of this service is an integral part of our strategy, which aims to support the needs of those with hearing impairments in the community and will be instrumental in achieving our goal of supporting those with special needs in every area of life. Shoppers can easily use a QR code inside Carrefour for video calls with sign language interpreters at the Merge call centre, to help them to communicate in sign language with all Carrefour employees to meet their requirements effectively.”
The service is now available at Carrefour’s City Centre Almaza, City Centre Alexandria, City Centre Maadi, Mall of Egypt and City Light Alexandria.
This initiative builds on Carrefour’s unwavering commitment to its surrounding communities, coming as a continuation of its recent partnership with Sawiris Foundation for Social Development. The partnership witnessed the creation of 500 internship opportunities for youth with disabilities, with a total of 47 events which raised awareness about living with a disability in society and in the workplace.
