A new Starbucks store has opened in Washington D.C. and is setting an example for more accessible and inclusive spaces in the U.S.
Order-status-boards, employees who communicate through sign language, and shelves that provide room for wheelchairs and service dogs, are some of the many adjustments made to the new inclusive spaces framework that will guide construction and renovations of Starbucks stores going forward.
According to the Florida Department of Health, 1 in 3 adults, or 3.5 Floridians has a disability.
“It’s nice to come into spaces that are already kind of designed to maybe be more accommodating,” said Shanae Shelagh, a regular client of the new store. “Like someone with a service dog, to have a little bit more space, have more tables that are handicapped friendly, with more space under them.”
Starbucks has not yet set a date for opening this type of store in South Florida.
