Key takeaways from Disability:IN 2025: Shaping the future of accessibility

As we reflect on the powerful discussions and collaborative spirit of Disability IN: 2025, it's clear that the landscape of accessibility and inclusion is evolving rapidly. 

It was remarkable to witness so many dedicated leaders and innovators come together, reinforcing that accessibility is no longer a peripheral consideration, but a fundamental pillar for how businesses thrive in today's world.

Here at Mobility Mojo, we were (and still are) deeply engaged in those vital conversations. That’s why we've meticulously distilled the most impactful discussions, emerging trends and forward-thinking strategies into our comprehensive Essential Takeaways Guide to ensure everybody (including those who couldn’t attend the conference) gets the value from this extraordinary gathering.

Before you delve into the full download, here’s a concise overview of the five pivotal themes that emerged from Disability:IN 2025 and their profound implications for your organisation.

1. Retail & hospitality: Designing for every customer journey

The conference highlighted a significant shift: Accessibility in retail and hospitality is now a fundamental driver for enhancing the overall customer experience. 

More than ever before, the emphasis is on ensuring the creation of truly welcoming environments, from physical spaces to seamless digital interactions.

A standout example is Walmart's "Quiet Shopping Hours," a simple yet powerful initiative benefiting neurodivergent individuals by reducing sensory overload. 

As Noelle Daly, Mobility Mojo's Co-Founder and Chief Compliance Officer, added:

"Noise, bright lights and crowds can make shopping uncomfortable for people with neurodivergence, but this also benefits everyone."

Our very own Stephen Cluskey, Co-Founder and CEO of Mobility Mojo, also highlighted the  importance of proactive "pre-visit info" for venues,with a profound emphasis on organisations embracing the urgency and necessity of allowing everyone to plan their visit plan with confidence.. 

2. Accessibility legislation & global standards: From compliance to competitive edge

Another clear message from Disability:IN 2025 was that global regulatory pressure has been driving the acceleration of disability inclusion. What was once a legal obligation is now a core strategic priority affecting innovation, market access and profitability.

Directives like the European Accessibility Act (EAA), Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) are powerful forcing functions, compelling companies to embed legal obligations across their supply chains and public reporting. As Noelle explained:

"Due to EU disability-related directives, Europe is now the driving force for disability inclusion." 

Another panelist noted: 

"Even if you're not directly trading in the EU, your client might be. That puts you on the hook."

3. AI & accessibility: A powerful partnership for inclusion

At the conference, panelists championed AI as an incredible enabler for a more accessible world. Far from being a threat, it can significantly enhance the daily lives of people with disabilities, fostering greater independence and productivity.

For example, Google and Microsoft's Copilot show the power of AI in streamlining tasks and improving communication. 

The conference also emphasised AI's potential for radical personalisation, a long-sought feature for people with disabilities.
 

4. Global policy impacts & cultural nuance: Navigating a complex landscape

Disability:IN 2025 highlighted that while global policies set ambitious benchmarks, successful implementation requires a nuanced understanding of diverse cultural, legal and operational contexts. The EU's regulation-first approach creates momentum, but its application varies across member states.

The session "How European Union Rules Impact Companies Worldwide" delved into the ripple effects of directives like CSRD, CSDDD and EAA on a global business level. 

Panelists discussed how these regulations compel organisations to comprehensively assess and adapt operations, from workforce representation to supply chain due diligence.

This preventive framework contrasts sharply with the US "litigation-first" approach, highlighting that a proactive awareness and consideration of global litigation is still very much still a necessity for organisations with roots across multiple borders.

5. Employee voice and lived experience: The foundation of authentic inclusion

A powerful and recurring theme was the importance of putting the  lived experiences of employees and customers with disabilities at the center of change . 

 Authentic inclusion means moving beyond compliance to create psychologically safe environments where employees feel empowered to share their stories.

 Robust internal mechanisms like business resource groups (BRGs) and comprehensive disability awareness training also play an important role in debunking fears and fostering inclusive hiring practices.

Ready to dive deeper?

These insights are just the tip of the iceberg. The Disability:IN 2025 Conference reinforced that disability inclusion isn't just a moral imperative: it’s a core strategic advantage that drives innovation, fosters growth and enhances brand reputation.

To truly unlock the full spectrum of knowledge and actionable strategies from the event, we invite you to download our complete Essential Takeaways Guide. It's packed with detailed summaries, expert commentary and practical steps to help you lead the way in accessibility.