Target retrofits POS for visually impaired

Based on agreement between Target and The American Foundation for the Blind, American Council of the Blind and California Council of the Blind, the retailer is working to improve the privacy of guests with visual impairments during the checkout experience.

Target is adding new keypads to point-of-sale payment devices chainwide, an improvement that allows visually challenged shoppers, or those with difficulty reading information, to enter personal-identification numbers via a tactile touch screen. The keys are arranged like a standard telephone keypad and will be integrated with Target’s current POS terminals.

“Committed to providing an exceptional experience and fostering an inclusive shopping environment for all our guests, Target is eager to make changes to our POS keypads,” said Ann Marie Janke, VP technology services, guest development. “The improvement will enhance the guest experience and ensure the privacy protection of our visually impaired guests.”

All Target stores in California will have the new devices by December, and keypads will be installed in all Target stores nationwide by the end of 2010.