Walking into a store should never be a challenge.

 

Yet, for visually impaired people, the slightest obstacle can turn a simple visit into an obstacle course. Accessibility is not just a legal requirement: it's a lever for inclusion, comfort, and loyalty.

 

Adapting your sales space means ensuring a seamless and welcoming experience for all customers. It also promotes your commitment to responsible and sustainable commerce.

 

Understanding low vision and its implications

 

Low vision refers to severe visual impairment that persists despite wearing glasses or undergoing surgery. It does not mean total blindness, but a significant loss of visual acuity or field. Unlike a blind person, a visually impaired person still partially perceives their surroundings.

 

In France , nearly 1.7 million people are affected by visual impairment, including around 207,000 with low vision⁽¹⁾.

 

In public establishments, the autonomy of these customers depends largely on the environment. A clear, fluid, and well-designed space allows them to move around unaided, choose a product safely, and be an active participant in their shopping experience.

 

Regulatory framework for accessibility for the visually impaired

 

Since the law of February 11, 2005⁽²⁾, accessibility has been a right for everyone. This law requires all establishments open to the public (ERP) , including businesses, to provide independent access for people with disabilities, including visual disabilities.

 

Each ERP must have carried out an accessibility diagnosis . In the event of non-compliance, a Programmed Accessibility Agenda (Ad'AP) must be put in place to plan the necessary adjustments.

 

Failure to comply with these obligations may result in significant financial penalties or even administrative closure of the establishment.

 

To learn more or check your compliance, visit the Ministry of Ecological Transition's website. Practical information sheets are also available at accessibilite.gouv.fr.

 

Development of exterior paths

 

Accessibility begins outside the store. The pedestrian path must be continuous, obstacle-free, and at least 1.40 m wide. A width of 1.20 m is permitted for short distances.

 

Surfaces must be stable, non-slip, and smooth. The contrast between the ground and the edges helps to better distinguish traffic areas.

 

Warning strips are essential at the top of stairs, at pedestrian crossings, or before danger zones. They alert visually impaired people with easily detectable raised markings on the ground.

 

Poles, trash cans, planters: all obstacles must be removed or clearly marked. A safe and clear path is the foundation of a successful welcome.

 

Internal circulation and store layout

 

Within a retail space, the layout must allow for uninterrupted and uncluttered circulation. Aisles must be wide enough (1.20 m minimum) to allow visually impaired customers to pass through alone or with others, without having to squeeze through or navigate around obstacles. Product display areas must not encroach on these circulation paths.

 

The spatial organization must be coherent: each area has a clear function (reception, fitting, payment) and the transitions between these areas are gradual and easily identifiable. A cluttered or frequently changed space creates disorientation for people with visual impairments.

 

The visual contrast between the floor, walls, furniture, and displayed products makes it easier to spot. For example, a light-colored piece of furniture on a dark floor will be more easily perceived. Step edges or countertop edges can be highlighted with brightly colored stripes or different textures to create a visual break.

 

Furniture height should also be considered. Items must remain accessible without bending excessively or raising their heads above 1.30 m. It is recommended to group similar products in logical areas, with legible signage.

 

Lighting should be continuous throughout the store. Diffuse, even , and indirect lighting should be preferred to avoid areas of reflection or glare. Powerful or poorly directed spotlights can create harsh, disorienting contrasts. Particular attention should be paid to entrances and display windows, which are often subject to significant variations in brightness.

 

A store designed with this logic in mind offers each visitor a fluid reading of the space, without surprise or confusion.

 

Signage adapted for the visually impaired

 

Effective signage makes it easy to find your way around, without outside help. The characters should be large, at least 15 mm high, with a simple, sans-serif font. Contrast between the text and the background is essential: black on white, white on blue, yellow on black... all combinations that improve readability.

 

Information panels should be placed at a height of between 0.90 m and 1.30 m, always in the same location from one point of sale to another. This makes them easier to locate visually and tactilely.

 

Clear pictograms, consistent signage and floor markings (directional strips, danger zones) complete the system. These elements must comply with standards such as NF P98-352 .

 

In some cases, audio or Braille signage can enhance spatial understanding. This is particularly useful in large stores or busy areas.

 

The benefits of a trade accessible to all

 

As you can see, adapting your retail space to accommodate low vision is much more than a legal requirement. It's about meeting the real-world needs of a growing audience: the elderly, visually impaired customers, caregivers, but also families, passersby with temporary mobility, and more.

 

An accessible business is a more fluid, clearer, and more welcoming space. This improves the customer experience for everyone, without exception. It's also a visible commitment that reinforces your image as an inclusive and responsible brand.

 

The benefits are also economic: more visitors, increased loyalty, positive word of mouth.

 

Many adjustments are simple to implement. An accessibility assessment helps identify priorities and progress step by step.

 

Making your store accessible is an investment in the future.

 

Want to go further? Check out our article on web accessibility .

 

⁽¹⁾Source: INSEE / Public Health France

⁽²⁾Source: Legifrance