A pioneering new hospitality group, Inclu, has launched with a mission to redefine accessibility and inclusivity in luxury travel. Led by CEO and cofounder Richard Thompson, a longstanding advocate for disability-inclusive tourism, Inclu is introducing a range of services and brands designed to create a travel industry where all guests, regardless of their needs, feel genuinely welcomed.
Inclu aims to tackle the significant gap in accessible travel options by engaging directly with hotels, restaurants, travel providers, and industry professionals. The group’s approach, which it terms ‘Conscious Inclusivity,’ goes beyond traditional accessibility measures. It emphasises the importance of seamless service, staff training, and a commitment to personalised experiences for travellers with physical, sensory, and neurodivergent needs.
The need for a more inclusive travel industry is evident. According to the World Health Organization, over 1.3 billion people—around 15-20% of the global population—experience some form of disability. The spending power of this group, along with their families and friends, is estimated at $13 trillion. In the UK, there are 16 million disabled people, with the ‘purple pound’—the combined spending power of households with at least one disabled person—worth approximately £274 billion annually.
Inclu’s offerings span both consumer and business-focused services. Among its key initiatives is the launch of Inclusive Luxury Hotels and Inclusive Luxury Table, concierge-led platforms that connect travellers with high-end hotels and restaurants that have met rigorous accessibility standards. These establishments must complete the Verified by IncluCare programme, an accreditation system that ensures they provide more than just accessible facilities—they must deliver a fully inclusive guest experience.
The group has also introduced Inclu Academy, which provides training programmes for independent contractors, destination management companies, and tour operators to improve accessibility across the travel supply chain. Additionally, Inclu Consulting offers strategic guidance for hospitality businesses seeking to enhance their inclusivity practices.
A central focus of Inclu’s mission is increasing visibility and availability of accessible accommodation. Currently, it is estimated that around $1.5 billion worth of accessible hotel room inventory goes unbooked each year due to a lack of visibility in booking systems. The Verified by IncluCare programme aims to change this by ensuring accessible rooms are clearly listed, bookable, and confirmed at the time of reservation—something that remains a rarity in the industry.
For Thompson, who sustained a spinal cord injury and has spent decades advocating for disabled travellers, Inclu represents the culmination of his work. “For too long, accessible travel has been a niche, with isolated examples of inclusivity rather than an industry-wide commitment. Inclu is here to change that—proving that adventure, luxury, and accessibility can go hand in hand,” he said.
By championing inclusivity at all levels of the hospitality industry, Inclu hopes to set a new benchmark for how luxury travel can truly welcome everyone.
