As of 28 June 2025, the European Accessibility Act (EAA) is now in force - ushering in a new era of digital accessibility for consumers across the EU.
The legislation sets harmonised requirements for private businesses offering key digital products and services, reinforcing the rights of all consumers to access technology on equal terms.
Why it matters
The EAA is not just another compliance hurdle - it’s a transformative step toward a more inclusive digital economy. Crucially, the EAA applies to any organisation offering services to EU consumers, regardless of whether the business is based within the EU.
The EAA represents a significant shift in how digital services are regulated and delivered across the EU. But it’s also an opportunity for inclusion and for your business to demonstrate its commitment to accessibility as a core value.
What’s covered?
The EAA casts a wide net, covering a broad range of digital products and services - from e-readers, general computer hardware and ticketing platforms to self-service terminals. Among the most significant changes is the requirement for transactional websites and apps to be accessible, a shift set to affect countless businesses and touch the daily lives of millions of consumers.
Your key obligations
To comply with the EAA, organisations must ensure:
- accessible digital interfaces – including screen reader compatibility, logical navigation, and legible fonts
- inclusive customer support – ensuring all users can access service information and assistance
- accessibility-first product design – such as tactile controls, adjustable settings, and compatibility with assistive technologies
- up-to-date accessibility statements – published and maintained for all relevant services
While EU Member States retain some discretion in implementation, aligning with WCAG 2.1 and EN 301 549 standards is widely recognised as the most effective route to compliance.
Enforcement and risk
Non-compliance isn’t just a technical oversight - it carries real consequences:
- financial penalties
- suspension or withdrawal of non-compliant products or services
- reputational damage and loss of consumer trust
How we can help
Our Accessibility Check service is designed to support your compliance journey from end to end:
- assess your digital touchpoints against the EAA’s scope
- conducting accessibility audits of your digital platforms for EAA compliance
- drafting and maintaining accessibility statements
- training internal teams and key stakeholders
- supporting third-party contract negotiations where accessibility is a contractual requirement
If you’d like to explore how the EAA may impact your organisation - or how we can help you navigate the road to compliance - please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Disclaimer
This information is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is recommended that specific professional advice is sought before acting on any of the information given. Please contact us for specific advice on your circumstances. © Shoosmiths LLP 2025.