The European Accessibility Act (EAA) 2025 is a game-changer for businesses operating in or selling to the EU. With over 135 million people with disabilities in EU states, accessibility isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s now a legal requirement. And the deadline? June 28th 2025—just around the corner!
If you don’t comply, you could face fines of up to £1,000,000. This law aims to create a single market where digital products and services are accessible to everyone, covering e-commerce websites, banking services, ATMs, mobile apps, and more.
But don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with a simple breakdown of what the EAA means for your business and how you can get ahead of the deadline.
What is the European Accessibility Act?
The EAA is all about making digital products and services accessible across the EU. It introduces common accessibility rules for various industries, ensuring that businesses create a more inclusive digital experience.
What Does the Act Cover?
The EAA applies to a wide range of products and services, including:
- Computers, operating systems, and smartphones
- E-commerce platforms
- Banking services & ATMs
- TV equipment
- Ticketing machines and check-in kiosks
Key Deadlines to Know
June 28, 2022: EU member states had to incorporate the EAA into national laws.
June 28, 2025: Businesses must be fully compliant.
June 28, 2030: Businesses can still use non-compliant products launched before 2025 but must phase them out by this date.
Who Needs to Comply?
If your business has 10+ employees or an annual revenue above £2 million, the EAA applies to you. Even if your company is outside the EU, you must comply if you sell products or services to EU consumers.
Non-compliance isn’t an option—fines can reach £1,000,000, and businesses risk legal action, reputational damage, and being banned from EU markets.
How Will This Impact UK Businesses?
Even after Brexit, UK businesses selling to EU customers must comply with the EAA. The UK hasn’t adopted the Act into local law yet, but if your business operates in EU markets, these rules still apply.
What You Need to Do:
- Ensure your products and services meet EAA standards
- Follow WCAG guidelines for websites and apps
- Modify digital platforms for better accessibility
- Train staff on accessibility best practices
- Regularly audit compliance to avoid fines
Why Compliance is Good for Business
Instead of seeing this as a hassle, think of it as an opportunity:
Expand your market reach by making your products accessible to more users
Reduce costs by following one standard for both UK and EU markets
Boost brand reputation by championing inclusivity
Steps to Make Your Business EAA-Ready
Becoming compliant doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s how to get started:
- Update Your Website
Your site must follow Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), including:
- Screen reader compatibility
- Keyboard-only navigation
- Clear accessibility statements
- Reliable feedback systems
- Modify Your Products
Your products must be usable by people with disabilities. This means:
Audio-assisted features for consumer electronics
ATMs and kiosks with audio guidance & easy-to-use menus
- Train Your Staff
Employees need to understand accessibility best practices and assistive technologies. Regular audits will help maintain compliance.
- Test with Real Users
Nothing beats real feedback! Involve people with disabilities in testing to ensure genuine accessibility improvements.
How to Implement These Changes Smartly
Getting started now will save you stress (and money) down the road. Follow these quick steps:
Quick Wins
Conduct an accessibility audit ASAP
Update your accessibility statement
Implement colour contrast checks and alt text for images
Test against EN 301 549 standards
Long-Term Strategies
Set up ongoing staff training on accessibility
Ensure procurement includes EAA-compliant products
Invest in automated accessibility testing tools
Maintain detailed accessibility documentation for compliance tracking
Cost & Compliance Planning
Budgeting for accessibility ensures compliance without breaking the bank.
Budget for:
Technical documentation & conformity assessments
Product & service modifications
Staff training programs
External accessibility expertise
Regular compliance audits
Final Thoughts: Accessibility is the Future
The European Accessibility Act 2025 is more than just a compliance requirement—it’s a business opportunity to create inclusive digital experiences. Getting started early ensures smooth implementation and avoids last-minute panic.
Think of accessibility as an investment in your customers and your company’s reputation. The sooner you act, the better positioned you’ll be for success in an inclusive digital marketplace!
European Accessibility Act 2025: Why Your Business Needs to Act Now