Accessibility in shopping centers has become an essential aspect to ensure that these spaces can be enjoyed by everyone with the greatest possible degree of autonomy. It is not only a matter of complying with regulations, but also of offering an inclusive, comfortable and safe experience.
In this context, shopping center managers increasingly understand that accessibility is not only a social value, but also a competitive advantage. An accessible space contributes to increasing the number of visitors, improving the customer experience and reinforcing the center’s reputation as a responsible and sustainable place.
To promote and recognize these efforts, there is the AIS certification, which objectively evaluates the degree of accessibility of a space and communicates it clearly to the public, generating trust and differentiation. The following are the general benefits of accessibility in shopping centers and the specific benefits of obtaining AIS certification.
Retail Benefits
- Social inclusion: Ensures that all people can enjoy the space under equal conditions, incorporating them into the companies’ DEI plans.
- Improved customer experience: Facilitates mobility, access and orientation, which generates greater comfort and satisfaction for all visitors.
- Increased footfall: Removing barriers expands the potential user base, including people with disabilities, seniors, families with young children, and tourists.
- Longer dwell time: Customers feel more comfortable and tend to stay longer.
- Adaptation to an aging society: Accessibility also benefits the elderly, a growing consumer segment.
- Risk prevention: Accessible spaces are usually safer, reducing accidents and legal claims.
- Reputation and differentiation: An AIS-certified shopping center conveys social commitment and corporate responsibility. It facilitates communication of the commitment to inclusion.
- Regulatory compliance: AIS helps to comply with national and international accessibility laws and regulations and has a specific protocol for regulatory cross-checks.
- ESG plans: allows progress to be made in the S of the ESG strategies of companies, scoring in GRESB.
What AIS Retail says
- Óscar Mata (Neinver): “AIS adds great value to our assets”.
- Pedro Díaz (Castellana Properties): AIS “has allowed us to have a roadmap”.
- Álvaro Guerrero (Merlin Properties): “AIS helps us to grow within the social world of ESG”.
