Advancing Accessibility Together: A Step Forward in Inclusive Design

At Starbucks, we’re proud to be at the forefront of inclusive design in the retail industry. Our Inclusive Spaces Framework—developed in collaboration with partners (employees), customers, and accessibility experts—is being recognized as the “Gold Standard” by national disability rights leaders, including former U.S. Representative Tony Coelho, a principal author of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).  

This recognition follows Starbucks recent announcement as a founding member of The Access Coalition, a cross-industry initiative aimed at driving inclusive innovation in both physical and digital retail spaces. The Framework led by Starbucks provides comprehensive guidance—from power-operated doors and optimized acoustics and lighting, to equipment design and point-of-sale systems—designed to create welcoming environments for all.  

“Last year while in Washington, DC, I toured the Starbucks coffeehouse in the Union Market District…From the moment I walked in, to when I wrote my order while engaging with the deaf barista over the lower and easier to access counter, to seeing my order displayed on the status board next to an easier to reach handoff, the entire store is more comfortable and creates a sense of belonging,” shared Tony Coelho. “The store’s accessibility creates a better environment for everyone, not just people with disabilities.” 

Since our earliest days, Starbucks has fostered a culture of warmth and belonging– a place where everyone is welcome. This includes Starbucks collection of artwork featured at coffeehouses that celebrate accessibility and inclusion, 23 Signing Coffeehouses across the globe, free access to Aira services that help blind or low vision customers navigate the cafes and Disability Advocacy Partner Network (employee resource group) which has contributed to the success of all Starbucks partners and the company since 2016. 

Our Inclusive Spaces Framework builds on this legacy, offering scalable, open-sourced solutions that can be adopted across the retail industry. It also helped lay the foundation for The Access Coalition, which continues the spirit of the ADA by promoting accessibility in communities everywhere.  

Learn more about how Starbucks and The Access Coalition are carrying forward the legacy of the ADA here.