High Street Matters: Accessibility - Unlocking The High Street

This podcast from Bira explores how prioritising accessibility can unlock new opportunities for independent retailers on the high street. This episode delves into the commercial benefits of creating a more inclusive shopping experience.

Featuring insights from industry experts including Bira CEO Andrew Goodacre, the podcast examines common barriers to accessibility and provides affordable solutions retailers can implement.

Mr Goodacre said: "Indie traders want to be accessible, but often see steps taken that put up unintended barriers like removing parking without improving public transport access."

You'll also hear from Tony Elvin, General Manager of Touchwood Shopping Centre, on how embracing accessibility drove measurable success. He said that "small changes like turning a counter" allowed wheelchair users to properly access one indie shop, increasing business.

The podcast highlights the economic incentive too. Ailsa Forbes of the International Longevity Centre UK who shares that "by 2040, older households could spend 63p of every £1" and stresses "it makes commercial sense" to create a positive, accessible experience that turns customers into loyal repeaters".

Hosted by journalist Steve Dyson, the episode guides affordable ways indies can enhance accessibility within their premises, while underscoring the moral, social and financial payoffs of inclusivity.

Whether through improving mobility access, creating a welcoming atmosphere, or rethinking product placements to making sure that people have common barriers to accessibility and affordable solutions to parking and reaching the high street, this podcast arms retailers with the keys to unlocking the full potential of the high street for all.

Subscribe now to have this podcast sent directly to your podcast platform. Then get ready for future episodes tackling themes like hazardous substances legislation, the cycle to work scheme and many more high street matters!

Hear something you want to follow up on? Listener enquiries can be sent to info@bira.co.uk.
For more on Bira's mission supporting Britain's independent retailers, visit www.bira.co.uk.