IKEA pilots new accessibility solutions for customers with limited mobility
IKEA Finland has announced two new accessibility solutions at its IKEA Vantaa store, designed to make shopping easier and more predictable for disabled customers and those with mobility needs.
The retailer is piloting a free assisted shopping service alongside the NaviLens navigation solution over the next year, as part of wider efforts to improve accessibility and inclusion in-store.
The Vantaa store is currently trialling NaviLens to support visually impaired customers, while also offering a pre-bookable assisted shopping visit with a trained member of staff.
The assisted shopping service provides individual support during a pre-booked 90-minute visit. IKEA says the service is intended for customers who need personal assistance while shopping, with trained staff accompanying them around the store and taking their functional needs into account. The service is currently available only at IKEA Vantaa and must be booked in advance.
Alongside this, NaviLens codes have been installed in-store and can be read using the free NaviLens mobile app. IKEA states that the app gives users short audio descriptions of their surroundings, including directions linked to entrances, walkways, showroom areas and the restaurant, helping visually impaired customers navigate the store more independently. The app is free to download and use during a visit to IKEA Vantaa.
IKEA’s Plan your visit page also highlights a broader range of accessibility features available in its stores, including wheelchairs, wheelchair-accessible checkouts, accessible toilets, assistance dog access, lifts, wide step-free aisles and designated quieter shopping periods. IKEA Finland says these measures form part of its wider commitment to accessibility, diversity and inclusion.
Customers visiting IKEA Vantaa can book the assisted shopping service through the company’s website and prepare in advance using the online “Plan your visit” section, which includes further information on store accessibility and support services.
In related news, dairy brand Müller Yogurt & Desserts announced that it would roll out NaviLens codes across all its branded products, increasing accessibility for blind and partially sighted (BPS) people.
