Checkers Sixty60 can now ‘talk’ to blind users

Blind SA president Christo de Klerk acknowledged the app’s increased accessibility since the January 2025 update, highlighting both technical enhancements and Checkers Sixty60’s investment in upskilling its team on accessibility. Improvements include clearer labels and control types during onboarding, enabling screen readers to provide better guidance, especially during PIN verification.

Product cards have been optimized with enhanced contextual information read aloud by screen readers, supplementing quick actions for adding items and navigating product pages. Blind SA also noted the improved ease with which blind users can now independently edit their shopping lists. Changes have also been implemented in the order and basket summary screens, as well as the product search functionality.

The collaboration addresses the challenges visually impaired individuals face with traditional in-store shopping, such as difficulty finding products and navigating aisles. While some stores offer limited assistance, grocery delivery apps like Sixty60 offer a crucial alternative, provided they are designed with accessibility in mind.

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Accessibility review specialist Michael Taylor highlighted the frustration of using screen readers with poorly designed grocery apps, particularly when selecting substitute items due to insufficient information being read aloud.

Blind SA commended Checkers’ commitment to inclusivity, positioning them as a role model for other South African companies. While acknowledging ongoing areas for improvement, such as bottom tab navigation and basket accessibility, Blind SA member Nicole Roos emphasised the retailer’s continued communication and expressed hope that other retailers will follow suit to ensure equal access for all.