How we help > Neuroinclusive retail

Shaping inclusive shopping experiences – for everyone

In 2023, we commissioned pioneering market research into the barriers neurodivergent people face when shopping. Now, we’re bringing it to you.

Invaluable insights for every retail brand

Loud music. Untrained store assistants. Cluttered aisles. These are just some of the roadblocks facing neurodivergent – and neurotypical – customers.

The first quantitative research of its kind, Inclusive Change and Nature’s ‘Neurodiversity in Retail’ report outlines the key barriers facing Australian neurodivergent shoppers. And illuminates a path for retailers towards neuroinclusivity.

Whether you run a large department store or boutique shop, this data will give you the up-to-date insights you need to sculpt meaningful change in your retail space.

Simply enter your name and email to request access to the summary – at no charge.

  • Australia’s retail sector is a microcosm of the communities that we serve - both the customers who shop with us and the people we employ. The Neurodiversity In Retail research by Inclusive Change and Nature provides valuable insights for retailers and reminds us that our customers are not a homogenous group, with at least 20% of the population who identify with non-apparent differences and disabilities. Importantly, the research also provides the data to illustrate that inclusive environments will benefit all customers, not just neurodivergent customers. There is a broad range of opportunities to design inclusive shopping experiences for everyone - and good commercial reasons for retailers to do so. I hope this research will prompt retailers to further explore their own inclusion strategies and meet the call to action for a more inclusive retail sector.

    Paul Zahra, CEO Australian Retailers Association

  • What Natalie and her Inclusive Change team have done is groundbreaking – businesses worldwide need to pay close attention to these research findings. We now have data to clearly indicate what many of us with brains that work differently have known for a long time: improving the retail experience for neurodivergent customers (approximately 20% of your customer base) directly benefits people of ALL abilities. Importantly for businesses, these often small changes can have big impacts on their bottom line.

    Lisa Cox, Inclusive Media Consultant, Disability Advocate, TEDx speaker

  • The retail experience is such a big part of our lives today. Yet, for around 20% of the world’s population, it is not an accessible or viable option. Understanding the neurodivergent retail experience is crucial – but previous consumer and industry data hasn’t covered it. So this research and its findings are truly outstanding and unique. As a neurodivergent person myself, I understand the pressure points around this research and implore all retailers, big and small, to read, reflect and act upon it.

    Asteria Grace, Neurodiversity Advocate

  • As someone who identifies as autistic, I fully recognise that neurodivergent individuals are just that: individuals with their own personalities, temperaments, likes and dislikes, and talents. So, it continues to astound me that retail seems largely aimed at extroverts. We introverts also spend money; we also have unmet demands. Inclusive Change and Nature’s study illustrate that learning how to market and, indeed, manage inclusively is not just good for neurodivergent individuals – it’s good for all, and it’s good for business.

    Neurodivergent Executive and Autistic Advocate

  • We found Inclusive Change and Nature’s ‘Neurodiversity in Retail’ research fascinating. One of our ‘ah ha!’ moments was learning that the desires of neurodivergent shoppers can motivate a significant number of non-neurodivergent shoppers, too. Many of the actions suggested by the research are simple and cost-effective to implement. We are currently socialising some of these findings with our Disability & Access EAG, which should lead to meaningful action at our assets.

    Ranil Illesinghe, Head of Research & Insights, Vicinity Centres

  • Inclusive Change’s research and findings will contribute significantly to the work of disability advocates who strive to improve inclusivity in retail environments for Australians. We look forward to working with you to raise awareness and further improve access and inclusion for all neurodivergent shoppers.

    Justin Bruce, Director Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Aus/NZ HDS - Global

Creating neuroinclusive retail – from the ground up

Change is led by research. But it’s sustained through action.

That’s why we offer two core, complementary services to ready your retail business for neuroinclusive change. Do one or do both. It’s up to you.

Whatever you choose, you’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of – and ability to embrace – neuroinclusive retail practices.

Understand the research

You’ve read the research summary but what does it mean for your retail brand?

In an interactive session, Natalie will present the full report, explaining the findings and their impact. Most importantly, it will be tailored to your business.

Private and supportive, this session offers a deep dive into neuroinclusive retail – with plenty of opportunity for questions and conversation.

You’ll gain:

  • Practical advice and recommendations specific to your retail brand
  • An understanding of the key elements of neuroinclusive retail
  • A greater awareness of the neuroinclusive retailer benchmark – and how your brand stacks up
  • The confidence to catalyse meaningful change in your business

Please allow up to 2 hours for this session.

Design your own research

Want to know more about your retail brand’s neuroinclusive maturity?

Start with research.

We can partner with you to produce in-depth, reliable and powerful neuroinclusivity data about your business and customers.

Armed with specific research, you can:

  • Identify areas in your brand ripe for neuroinclusive change – without the guesswork
  • Implement proven solutions across the key elements of neuroinclusive retail
  • Become a leader in crafting neuroinclusive retail experiences

Why Inclusive Change?

Our approach is supportive and non-judgemental. In our work together, you can explore neurodiversity without fear – and walk away ready to embrace neuroinclusivity within your retail business. One small, authentic step at a time.

Ahead of the curve

Our pioneering research is the first of its kind in Australia – and is backed by
neuroinclusion advocates across the country.

Tailored to your brand

We deliver specific advice and recommendations for your brand and business, covering everything from your in-store design to your customer service strategy.

Designed to your goals

We teach you how to create measurable, sustainable and authentic neuroinclusivity goals so they can become part of your ‘business as usual’.

Ready to revolutionise your retail brand?
Get in touch