SEATTLE, 2015-6-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — Starbucks scored 100 out of 100 on a new Disability Equality Index survey, a joint initiative of the American Association of People with Disabilities and the U.S. Business Leadership Network.
The Disability Equality Index (DEI) is a national, transparent benchmarking tool that offers businesses an opportunity to receive an objective assessment of their overall disability inclusion policies and practices. It is an aspirational, educational, recognition tool that goes far beyond legal compliance. It helps companies identify opportunities for continued improvement, while building their reputations as organizations that value diversity and inclusion.
“I am extremely pleased with the results of this ground-breaking collaboration between members of the business and disability communities,” said Helena Beger, Acting President and CEO of AADP. “It’s a real testament to what can happen when people work together toward shared goals.”
The 2014 DEI was completed by 80 Fortune 1000-size companies, representing a broad range of workplace, supply chain and marketplace activities. Points are awarded in four major categories: Culture & Leadership, Enterprise-wide Access, Employment Practices, and Community Engagement & Support Services.
Companies receive points in any given category by demonstrating that they embrace a significant portion of the numerous best practices outlined in each section. Starbucks is one of only 19 companies that received a score of 100.
By scoring 100 points, DEI said Starbucks “demonstrated significant business leadership, driving their business success through leading disability inclusion policies and practices.”
The company’s leadership will be celebrated at an awards reception on Capitol Hill (July 30, 2015) in conjunction with the Washington D.C. celebration of the 25th anniversary of the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
About Starbucks
Since 1971, Starbucks Coffee Company has been committed to ethically sourcing and roasting high-quality arabica coffee. Today, with stores around the globe, the company is the premier roaster and retailer of specialty coffee in the world. Through our unwavering commitment to excellence and our guiding principles, we bring the unique Starbucks Experience to life for every customer through every cup. To share in the experience, please visit us in our stores or online at www.starbucks.com and through the Starbucks Newsroom.
About the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD)
The American Association of People with Disabilities is the nation’s largest disability rights organization. AAPD promotes equal opportunity, economic power, independent living, and political participation for people with disabilities. AAPD’s members, including people with disabilities and family, friends, and supporters, represent a powerful force for change. To learn more, visit the AAPD Web site: www.aapd.com.
About the US Business Leadership Network® (USBLN®)
The US Business Leadership Network® (USBLN®) is a national non-profit that helps business drive performance by leveraging disability inclusion in the workplace, supply chain, and marketplace. The USBLN serves as the collective voice of nearly 50 Business Leadership Network affiliates across the United States, representing over 5,000 businesses. Additionally, the USBLN Disability Supplier Diversity Program® (DSDP) is the nation’s leading third party certification program for disability-owned businesses, including businesses owned by service-disabled veterans. www.usbln.org
For more information on this news release, contact the Starbucks Newsroom.
