Accessibility: Key Legal Changes and How Companies Can Prepare

Accessibility has long since become more than a social responsibility — it's increasingly a legal requirement. With new legislation on the horizon, companies face the challenge of making their digital offerings accessible. What does this mean for you, and how can you make sure your website or app meets the new requirements?

Why Accessibility Is a Priority Now

Accessibility means digital offerings must be usable by everyone, including people with disabilities. Whether someone has a visual, hearing, or motor impairment, digital accessibility ensures no one is excluded because of a design choice or a feature. This isn't just a usability issue anymore — it's increasingly a legal one.

Over the past few years, the European Union has set clear requirements to advance accessibility in the digital world. Particularly relevant here is EU Directive 2016/2102, which requires all public bodies to implement digital accessibility. This directive is complemented in Germany by the new Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG), which applies not only to public bodies but also to private companies.

The deadline is June 28, 2025!

The Most Important Legal Changes

The BFSG significantly broadens accessibility obligations. From 2025, all companies offering digital services must ensure their offerings meet the accessibility requirements for products and services. This affects, in particular:

Websites and mobile apps

Self-service terminals (e.g., ticket machines)

E-commerce platforms

Banking services and financial apps

The consequences of non-compliance shouldn't be underestimated: companies risk steep fines and legal action if they fail to meet the requirements.

How Companies Can Prepare

To meet accessibility requirements, companies should act early. Here are some steps that can help ensure digital accessibility:

Assess your current status: Companies should take stock of their digital offerings and evaluate how accessible they already are.

Accessibility checklist: Use a checklist to make sure all relevant aspects are covered, including:

Use of screen readers and alternative text elements

Sufficient contrast and color design

Easy navigation and keyboard operability

Adaptability to different screen sizes and resolutions

Train developers and designers: The team building your digital products needs to be informed and trained on the latest accessibility requirements. This ensures accessibility is built in from the start rather than bolted on afterward.

Testing and certification: Use accessibility testing tools and have your digital products tested regularly. Specialized providers also offer accessibility certification.

Customer involvement: Ask affected users directly how accessible your offerings really are. Direct feedback can help uncover blind spots.

Conclusion: Act Now to Be Prepared

The upcoming legal changes around accessibility present companies with new challenges, but also new opportunities. Accessibility not only strengthens your company's reputation but also expands your potential customer base. By acting early and taking the necessary steps toward accessibility, you ensure your company meets the requirements while making a meaningful contribution to inclusion.

Need help with implementation? Get in touch with us!