The Royal National Institute for the Blind has claimed a recent survey showed that one in two people are now more likely to use a company which has won an award for treating disabled employees and customers well.
The survey, carried out by an independent company during December 2004, found that 51 per cent of those surveyed would choose a company with high disability standards.
The RNIB is currently seeking nominations for its annual Simply the Best Awards, which are given to companies which have made a significant contribution to improving the lives of blind and partially sighted people. Previous winners have included Arsenal Football Club, Pizza Express and the Marriott Hotel Sunderland. Nominations close in March with the winners announced in June.