Why Accessibility? Unlock the Largest Overlooked Market


6 Jul 2025

6 Jul 2025

6 Jul 2025

Disabled people and their households wield significant economic influence in the UK, with their combined annual spending power estimated at £274 billion. Businesses that overlook accessibility are effectively closing off access to this market, missing both revenue and the opportunity to build brand trust with a loyal demographic. Research shows 73 percent of online shoppers with disabilities encounter serious barriers, and half abandon sites that frustrate them, costing retailers billions in lost sales.

By investing in inclusive customer journeys—from accessible websites to staff training and physical store design—businesses unlock this “Purple Pound” and convert latent demand into measurable growth. Whether in travel, retail or financial services, accessible offerings not only comply with regulation but also strengthen market reach and foster customer loyalty. Brands that embed accessibility signal social responsibility and position themselves to serve a large underserved community effectively.

Disabled people and their households wield significant economic influence in the UK, with their combined annual spending power estimated at £274 billion. Businesses that overlook accessibility are effectively closing off access to this market, missing both revenue and the opportunity to build brand trust with a loyal demographic. Research shows 73 percent of online shoppers with disabilities encounter serious barriers, and half abandon sites that frustrate them, costing retailers billions in lost sales.

By investing in inclusive customer journeys—from accessible websites to staff training and physical store design—businesses unlock this “Purple Pound” and convert latent demand into measurable growth. Whether in travel, retail or financial services, accessible offerings not only comply with regulation but also strengthen market reach and foster customer loyalty. Brands that embed accessibility signal social responsibility and position themselves to serve a large underserved community effectively.

Disabled people and their households wield significant economic influence in the UK, with their combined annual spending power estimated at £274 billion. Businesses that overlook accessibility are effectively closing off access to this market, missing both revenue and the opportunity to build brand trust with a loyal demographic. Research shows 73 percent of online shoppers with disabilities encounter serious barriers, and half abandon sites that frustrate them, costing retailers billions in lost sales.

By investing in inclusive customer journeys—from accessible websites to staff training and physical store design—businesses unlock this “Purple Pound” and convert latent demand into measurable growth. Whether in travel, retail or financial services, accessible offerings not only comply with regulation but also strengthen market reach and foster customer loyalty. Brands that embed accessibility signal social responsibility and position themselves to serve a large underserved community effectively.