Online shopping is being used as a tool to enhance accessibility
Trend - People with various disabilities may have difficulties shopping in traditional retail or virtual shopping settings, and some brands are aiming to change this with app-based features and services that prioritize accessibility. These include everything from voice-controlled shopping experiences to platforms that connect seniors with people who will do their grocery shopping for them.
Insight - Accessibility is becoming an increasingly important consideration for businesses as people with physical or mental disabilities and their allies fight for more inclusive products and services. As people become more vocal about their needs, brands are having to adapt rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach to their business models.
Insight - Accessibility is becoming an increasingly important consideration for businesses as people with physical or mental disabilities and their allies fight for more inclusive products and services. As people become more vocal about their needs, brands are having to adapt rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach to their business models.
Workshop Question - How is your brand authentically prioritizing accessibility for employees and customers?
Trend Themes
1. Accessibility Prioritization - Brands are introducing app-based services prioritizing accessibility for people with disabilities, including voice-controlled shopping and grocery assistance, to meet diverse needs.
2. Disruptive Charitable Business Model - Charitable clothing brands such as Two Blind Brothers are successfully leveraging mystery box strategies, offering customers the chance to support philanthropic causes and obtain surprises from the brand.
3. Text-based Shopping Tools - Personal shopping assistants such as Friday are using text messaging to offer ultra-fast and accelerated shopping experiences, empowering customers with more convenience and brand loyalty.
Industry Implications
1. Healthcare & Wellness - Healthcare companies, hospitals, and assisted-living facilities can tap into proactive innovation opportunities focused on disabilities and aging, including accessibility technology and senior delivery initiatives.
2. Ecommerce & Retail - Retail companies and online marketplaces can enhance their brand reputation by offering more inclusive, accessible, and innovative services, such as voice-controlled shopping and personal shopping assistants.
3. Nonprofit & Philanthropic - Non-profit organizations and social impact ventures can introduce disruptive charitable business models similar to Two Blind Brothers, relying on surprise box merchandising and engaging customers with philanthropic causes.
