An accessible website reflects a deeper understanding and values of an organisation. Many companies mistakenly believe they cannot afford to invest in accessibility, even though in reality it is a financially rewarding investment. That is why this article speaks about money.

It is estimated that a fifth of people require accessible web services, yet only 10% of them meet accessibility requirements. Those often neglected are people with physical disabilities, illnesses, or age-related sensory impairments.

The costs of accessibility depend on the size and current state of the web service. When considering the returns and savings brought by accessibility, the investment always pays for itself in at least four ways. 

Accessibility increases sales

Imagine you notice halfway through cooking that you are missing some ingredient, and reaching the nearest shop is difficult. If you are in good shape and a cheerful state of mind, the journey isn’t insurmountable and you head to the store. Conversely, if you are tired, stressed, or unwell, you might prefer ordering from Wolt or settle for the cereal in the cupboard.

The logic is the same for online shopping. If the online store is poor, the threshold for engaging with it is higher. We cannot place a physical store in everyone's yard, but we can make online shopping light and easy for users. 

The purchasing power of people needing accessible web services is significant 

In the UK, the Purple Pound report estimated that there are over 7 million individuals needing accessibility making online purchases in the country. Their online purchasing power is nearly 30 billion euros. 70% of them reported leaving a web service when facing accessibility issues. 

Where then does this money go? To competitors. Especially large international firms have understood the potential of accessibility and incorporated{