Lidl Ireland have launched a new feature showing the quietest and busiest shopping times at stores across Ireland.
The feature uses real-time data and customer transaction statistics to allow customers to plan their shopping trips.
To access the chatbot, customers are asked to visit www.Lidl.ie/Quiet on a mobile device, which will open up a WhatsApp chat.
From there, users can simply text the number provided with details on the date they would like to shop, and the system will find the ideal time.
It comes after Lidl earlier confirmed a new scheme to make it easier for people to pay for essentials and groceries.
At-risk customers will be able to purchase a gift card worth up to €200 which can be used by volunteers in store.
The vouchers can be bought by contacting supermarket's dedicated team over the phone who will email the Lidl Community Gift Card to the customer.
The gift card can then be given to a family member or friend who can use it in store.
Lidl spokeswoman Aoife Clarke said: "The past couple of months have been a whirlwind for everyone but we are delighted to have been able to support our communities throughout this challenging time.
"Our teams have been working diligently to make shopping trips as safe as possible for both our customers and our valiant store teams and we are thrilled to further those efforts with the launch our Lidl Community Gift Cards which offer at-risk customers a remote payment solution."
The new introduction is in addition to priority times set-aside for the elderly in Ireland.
The supermarket company said: "From 9-11am, we are implementing priority shopping hours for the elderly across all 163 Lidl stores in Ireland.
"This will include prioritised queuing and additional assistance for our older customers.
"We ask that the public respect this time period to allow more vulnerable customers to pick up the food and supplies they need."
Lidl has also urged customers not to panic buy and purchase more than they actually need, to help unsure products don't run out.
Lidl's dedicated Community Gift Cards team can be called on 1800 111 124. The line is open from 8am-6pm, Monday to Friday.
