Barriers

Since my husband and I have recently relocated we are looking for places to spend our money on the goods and services we need and want.

At the very top of this list is a grocery store. We are looking for a local market to be our source for fresh local, organic meat and produce as well as bulk items such as pasta, beans and coffee.

Today, we went to a food coop in a nearby town. I had read many good things about this market and they have been in business a long time. Their apparent mission and values are consistent with ours, so we decided to give it a shot.

We drove the half hour to the store, parked across the street and walked in. The store is clean and inviting, the merchandising is consistent with their online presence. The store is smaller than expected but still, we are happy.

As we proceed toward the back we see the bulk section is split into two separate rooms and there are two steps up into each room. Since my husband uses a wheelchair and most of the items we want to purchase are "up stairs" this store instantly became undesirable.

Whether your shop is online, in person or both, please spend some time thinking about the accessibility of it. Is there something you can do to make it more available for someone who uses a wheelchair, a white cane or sign language?