Target rolls out accessible self-checkout for disabled customers
Target Corp. is deploying what it calls a first-of-its-kind self-checkout solution designed for shoppers who are blind or low-vision and/or have motor disabilities.
Rolling out to self-checkout stations nationwide beginning during the 2025 holiday season and continuing through early 2026, Target says the solution is part of ongoing checkout improvements.
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Responding to the needs of a blind user experience accessibility manager and his daughter who also has low-vision, Target developed the solution in collaboration with the manager as well as the National Federation of the Blind (NFB).
Input from the blind community also directly shaped the technology, according to Target. The solution integrates seamlessly with Target’s existing self-checkout system and is designed to be intuitive to use independently.
Features include:
- Braille and high-contrast button icons.
- A headphone jack with adjustable volume controls.
- Physical navigation buttons and a dedicated info key.
- A custom tactile controller co-developed by Target and touchscreen technology partner Elo.
Customers hear every screen and payment prompt through one seamless audio stream. Target is also working with suppliers to help other retailers adopt the technology.
"This season brings so much joy for our guests, but we know it can be overwhelming, too," said Adrienne Costanzo, executive VP and chief stores officer, Target. "That’s why even small wins matter – like an accessible self-checkout that helps guests shop their way, with confidence. Put that together with our no-wait checkout experience at staffed lanes or express self-checkout, and you’ve got the kind of Target run we know guests are counting on. Because at the end of the day, shopping with us should be easy, move fast, and feel good – period."
Other accommodations Target offers customers with disabilities include offering at least one Caroline’s Cart, an adaptive shopping cart featuring a seat with a capacity to hold 35 to 250 pounds. The company has also received recognition from the Disability Equality Index (DEI) for on-the-job disability inclusion efforts.
Based in Minneapolis, Target Corp. operates nearly 2,000 stores nationwide as well as an e-commerce site.
