The Disabling Marketplace

This volume brings together a collection of studies from leading scholars that critically examine the barriers to accessibility in marketplaces. It explores the pervasive forces of ableism embedded in marketplace practices and environments that often exclude, stigmatize, and disempower individuals with disabilities.

This book highlights the pressing issue of marketplace accessibility for over a billion people worldwide living with disabilities—a number that is expected to grow due to aging demographics. Despite this significant population, our societies and marketplaces remain predominantly designed for the non-disabled. This volume brings together a collection of studies from leading scholars that critically examine the barriers to accessibility in marketplaces. It explores the pervasive forces of ableism embedded in marketplace practices and environments that often exclude, stigmatize, and disempower individuals with disabilities. By interrogating these barriers and ableist practices, the book aims to inspire scholars and practitioners to take responsibility for creating transformative, inclusive markets. Ultimately, it advocates for a future where marketplaces are ‘enabling’ rather than ‘disabling.’This book will be beneficial for students, researchers and practitioners in marketing, disability studies, and social policy. This book will also appeal to those interested in social justice and inclusive design. It contributes to the broad subject areas of marketing, accessibility, and equity, offering valuable insights for fostering inclusive and empowering marketplaces. The chapters in this book were originally published as a special issue of Journal of Marketing Management.