According to the most recent data (Census 2022, Ireland), about 1,109,557 people, or 22% of the population, reported having at least one long-lasting condition or disability.

Many use wheelchairs, mobility scooters, or other aids. Add in their families, friends, and caregivers, and you’re looking at a huge segment of the market.

If your venue is not accessible, those customers simply can’t walk through the door—literally. By improving accessibility, you open your business to an entire group of people who are often overlooked but eager to spend money in places that welcome them.

Word of mouth spreads quickly. If someone in a wheelchair finds your place of business easy to enter, your restrooms usable, and your staff friendly, they’ll come back—and they’ll tell others. Accessibility creates repeat business and loyal customers who appreciate the effort you’ve made.

On the flip side, one negative experience—like an “accessible” entrance that’s blocked, or staff who don’t know how to or even want to assist—can lead to negative reviews that spread even more quickly.

Accessibility isn’t just for wheelchair users. Parents with strollers, elderly visitors, travelers with heavy luggage—all benefit from ramps, elevators, and wide aisles. Even simple design choices like good signage, seating, and lighting make your venue more comfortable for all guests and visitors.

When you invest in accessibility, you’re not just accommodating one group—you’re creating a universally welcoming space.

In competitive industries like hospitality, retail, or entertainment, small differences matter. Imagine two cafés on the same street: one has steps and no accessible restroom, while the other has a ramp, a welcoming layout, and trained staff. Which one do you think customers with mobility needs—and their families—will choose?

Being known as an accessible, inclusive venue can set you apart in your community and attract positive media attention.

Some business owners see accessibility upgrades as expensive. But think of it this way: if you install a ramp that costs 3,000 and over the next few years you attract dozens of new customers who each spend hundreds or thousands at your venue, you will quickly recoup that investment.

Our Government offers grants, tax incentives, or funding programs to help businesses improve accessibility—so it may cost less than you think. For example...

Shop Front & Accessibility / Age Friendly Grant Scheme (Local Level)

Helps independent businesses improve shop-front appearance and/or make accessibility-/age-friendliness improvements (ramps, signage, etc.) as well as facade and customers’ ease of access. Varies by county/council. Must be independent business in that county; check local enterprise or county council grant-programmes.

Failte Ireland Investment Grant-Aid Scheme.

When the business is in tourism / visitor economy, there is a category for accessibility enhancements to make visitor experience more inclusive.

Disability Equality & Inclusion / Disability Awareness Training Grants

Funding (often 80-90%) for training staff in disability awareness, inclusive recruitment, reasonable accommodation etc. Helps businesses become more disability-inclusive.

As populations age, mobility needs are only increasing. Investing in accessibility now makes your business future-ready. Those who adapt today will be tomorrow’s leaders in customer care.

Accessibility is not charity—it’s good business. By making your venue welcoming to wheelchair users and others with mobility challenges, you’re not only doing the right thing, but you’re also strengthening your reputation, broadening your customer base, and future-proofing your business.

The bottom line? Accessibility pays off—in more ways than one.