Accessibility for digital products and websites has been mandatory for many companies in Europe since 28 June 2025. The basis for this is the European Accessibility Act (EAA). For companies, this means that the accessibility of websites and apps will change from a nice-to-have to a must-have - not only for compliance reasons, but also out of a sense of responsibility towards users.
With Directive (EU) 2019/882, the European Union has created the legal framework to make digital and physical products more accessible for people with disabilities. The aim is to promote an inclusive society - and to ensure the digital participation of all EU citizens.
Implementation is national. In Germany, the Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz (BFSG) is decisive. Companies that offer digital services for end customers must meet the requirements defined therein from the effective date. Micro-enterprises with fewer than ten employees or an annual turnover of less than EUR 2 million are exempt. For B2C companies, this is not just about technical details, but also about processes, roles and anchoring a new self-image in teams.
Depending on the required standard (WCAG Level A to AAA), this may include alternative texts for images, full keyboard navigation or high-contrast color design for better readability. Structured forms, subtitles for videos and screen reader compatibility also play a key role.
Accessibility is far more than a legal requirement - it is a genuine quality feature of digital services. And it affects far more people than many initially assume: Over 135 million people in the EU live with a disability. Those who cannot see, hear or operate content with a mouse are dependent on accessible interfaces. But even temporary limitations - such as a broken arm, poor lighting or an unstable internet connection - show how valuable well thought-out, inclusive designs are for all users.
For companies, accessibility brings several advantages: it increases reach, as new target groups can be reached more easily. At the same time, the user experience is improved - thanks to clear navigation, easy-to-read content and intuitive operation. Accessibility also pays off from an SEO perspective: Alt texts, semantic HTML and structured content support findability in search engines.
And last but not least: Those who focus on inclusion strengthen their own brand image. Companies that actively implement accessibility demonstrate social responsibility and digital maturity.
Of course, implementation also brings challenges. Older systems and established web architectures in particular need to be improved. Accessibility requires knowledge, resources and sometimes also cultural change within the company.
Nevertheless, companies that take a strategic approach to accessibility will benefit in the long term - not only by avoiding legal risks, but also through satisfied users, better performance and a clear brand image.
With our expertise in UX, UI and front-end development, we support companies with an individual accessibility audit, from status analysis and strategic planning to concrete implementation, in thinking holistically about digital accessibility and implementing the legal requirements efficiently and in a future-proof manner. Feel free to contact me!