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Tesco Ireland has launched a Web site for the visually impaired, in a further attempt to broaden the appeal of on-line shopping.
The Web site was developed following feedback from blind and partially sighted shoppers, who have also used the system in its trial phase.
A spokesperson for Tesco.ie told ElectricNews.net that the new Web site is a simplified version of its standard Web site. It presents shopping information in a list format and avoids the use of tables, which make it easier for adaptive technologies to interpret the site for the visually impaired.
Des Kenny, Chief Executive of The National Council for the Blind of Ireland, said the accessible Web site was a welcome move. "Tesco are to be highly commended as the first major retailer to bring this service to vision impaired people in Ireland," Kenny said. "I hope the lead shown by Tesco will be followed by other retail outlets."
Tesco said that it has received good feedback from people who have tried the site, saying it makes a real difference not needing someone to shop for them.
Although Tesco would not provide figures, it claims that its on-line shopping service is increasing in popularity and that more than 75 percent of the Irish population can now avail of Tesco.ie for their groceries. Tesco also advertises personal finance products on its sites, although it does not sell personal finance products across the Web.
The Institute of Technology Carlow is currently conducting a survey on on-line shopping through Infopoll.net. The survey asks respondents to provide information on their demographic situation and buying habits, particularly with regard to on-line shopping. The college plan to compile the findings of the results and release a report in August.
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