Nando's launches speaking menu for visually impaired and dyslexic diners
The app, which operates in partnership with the British Hospitality Association (BHA), is a free platform which uses text to speech software, colour inversion, and adjustments to the print size and brightness of the screen for smartphones and other devices to assist people with limited vision.
Diners are also able to view menus in the OpenDyslexic font, making it easier to read for dyslexic customers.
“We are absolutely thrilled to be working with Nando's. It’s a great honour to be able to use technology and accessibility to bring value to the restaurant industry and visually impaired diners alike,” said Matt Wadsworth, founder and CEO of Good Food Talks.
Over 2m people in the UK have a visual impairment, while an estimated 10m are dyslexic. BigHospitality reported earlier this year that UK businesses lose an estimated £1.8bn a month by failing to cater to the needs of customers with disabilities and additional requirements.
A 2014 government audit of more than 30,000 businesses found that three quarters of restaurants failed to cater to diners with visual impairments, while only 15 per cent had hearing loops.
Several independent outlets have signed up the Good Food Talks app alongside the larger high street chains.
