Single logo

Retail Store Accessibility and Inclusivity Audit Checklist

This checklist is designed to comprehensively evaluate and improve retail store accessibility and inclusivity, covering physical accessibility, inclusive customer service practices, and representation in marketing and product offerings to ensure a welcoming environment for all customers.

Retail Store Accessibility and Inclusivity Audit Checklist
by: audit-now
4.5

Get Template

About This Checklist

Creating an accessible and inclusive retail environment is not only a legal requirement but also a crucial aspect of customer service and social responsibility. This comprehensive accessibility and inclusivity audit checklist is an invaluable tool for retail managers, facilities teams, and diversity officers. By systematically evaluating physical accessibility, inclusive customer service practices, and representation in marketing and product offerings, this checklist helps ensure that retail stores are welcoming and functional for all customers, regardless of their abilities or backgrounds. Regular accessibility and inclusivity audits using this checklist can lead to improved customer experiences, broader market reach, and enhanced brand reputation for social responsibility.

Learn more

Industry

Retail

Standard

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Standards for Accessible Design

Workspaces

Retail stores

Occupations

Retail Accessibility Coordinator
Diversity and Inclusion Specialist
Store Operations Manager
Facilities Planner
Customer Experience Designer

Retail Accessibility Audit Items

(0 / 4)

1
Please provide any feedback regarding the accessibility features in the store.

Share your feedback on accessibility.

To gather insights and suggestions for improving accessibility.
2
Is the staff trained on providing inclusive customer service to individuals with disabilities?

Select if staff training on accessibility is provided.

To ensure that staff can assist customers with disabilities effectively.
3
How many accessible parking spaces are available?
To verify the availability of accessible parking for customers with disabilities.
Target: 3
4
Is the store layout designed to be accessible for individuals with disabilities?

Select whether the store layout is accessible.

To ensure that the store layout meets accessibility standards for all customers.
5
Has customer feedback indicated the effectiveness of inclusive marketing?

Select the feedback status on marketing inclusivity.

To evaluate customer perception of marketing inclusivity.
6
What percentage of marketing campaigns feature inclusive messaging?
To assess the focus on inclusivity in marketing efforts.
Target: 50
7
Describe the strategies used to ensure inclusivity in marketing efforts.

Provide a detailed description of inclusive marketing strategies.

To understand the approaches taken for inclusive marketing.
Write something awesome...
8
Does the marketing material represent diverse individuals, including those with disabilities?

Select whether diversity is represented in marketing.

To ensure that marketing materials are inclusive and represent all community segments.
9
What procedures are in place for the evacuation of individuals with disabilities during an emergency?

Describe the emergency evacuation procedures.

To ensure safe evacuation processes for all customers.
10
What is the minimum width of aisles in the store (in inches)?
To ensure that aisles are wide enough for wheelchair access.
Target: 36
11
Is Braille signage available throughout the store?

Indicate if Braille signage is available.

To verify that visually impaired customers can navigate the store effectively.
12
Are all entry points to the store accessible for individuals with disabilities?

Select whether all entry points are accessible.

To ensure that all customers can enter the store without barriers.
13
What feedback have customers provided regarding the accessibility of customer service?

Provide customer feedback on service accessibility.

To gather insights on customer experiences and improve accessibility.
14
What is the staff-to-customer ratio during peak hours?
To assess whether there are enough staff members to assist customers, including those with disabilities.
Target: 1:10
15
Are assistive devices (e.g., wheelchairs, hearing aids) available for customer use?

Indicate if assistive devices are available.

To verify that the store provides necessary aids to assist customers with disabilities.
16
Are customer service areas accessible to individuals with disabilities?

Select whether customer service areas are accessible.

To ensure that all customers can access help and support when needed.
17
What plans are in place to improve digital accessibility?

Provide details on the plans for improving digital accessibility.

To outline future steps for enhancing online accessibility.
Write something awesome...
18
What is the mobile accessibility score of the website (out of 100)?
To assess the accessibility of the store's website on mobile devices.
Target: 85
19
Is the website compatible with screen readers?

Indicate if the website is compatible with screen readers.

To verify that visually impaired customers can navigate the website effectively.
20
Is the store's website compliant with accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG)?

Select the compliance status of the website.

To ensure that online resources are accessible to individuals with disabilities.

FAQs

Accessibility and inclusivity audits should be conducted at least annually, with more frequent checks (e.g., quarterly) on specific high-impact areas like entrance accessibility and signage. Additionally, audits should be performed after any significant store renovations or changes in layout.

A comprehensive audit evaluates physical accessibility (entrances, aisles, fitting rooms, restrooms), assistive technologies, signage and wayfinding, staff training on inclusive customer service, representation in marketing materials, product range inclusivity, accommodation of service animals, and availability of inclusive facilities like family restrooms or quiet spaces.

These audits should be conducted by a diverse team including store managers, facilities experts, accessibility consultants, and representatives from disability advocacy groups. Input from customers with diverse needs can also provide valuable insights.

Technology can enhance accessibility through tools like digital wayfinding apps, hearing loop systems, adjustable-height service counters, braille signage printers, and staff training modules on inclusive customer service. Virtual reality simulations can also help staff understand diverse customer experiences.

After the audit, create a detailed report highlighting areas for improvement. Develop an action plan prioritizing necessary changes, such as physical modifications, staff training programs, or adjustments to product offerings and marketing strategies. Set clear timelines for implementations, allocate budget for improvements, and schedule follow-up assessments to ensure ongoing compliance and continuous improvement in accessibility and inclusivity.

Benefits

Ensures compliance with accessibility laws and regulations

Improves shopping experience for customers with diverse needs and abilities

Expands customer base by making the store welcoming to all

Enhances brand reputation for social responsibility and inclusivity

Reduces risk of discrimination complaints and legal issues