The European Accessibility Act (EAA) is a groundbreaking piece of legislation designed to enhance accessibility across the European Union (EU). With a compliance deadline of June 28, 2025, the EAA will profoundly impact businesses that trade in the EU, whether based within or outside its borders. Here’s what you need to know to prepare your organization for this significant change.
What is the European Accessibility Act?
Adopted in 2019, the EAA is aimed at improving the lives of individuals with disabilities and older people in the EU by ensuring equal access to selected products and services. It mandates businesses to meet specific accessibility standards, covering both digital and physical offerings.
The EAA builds upon existing regulations, such as the EU Web Accessibility Directive, by extending its requirements to the private sector. It’s not just about compliance; it’s a step toward creating a more inclusive market that benefits everyone.
Products and Services Covered by the EAA
The European Accessibility Act focuses on areas critical to daily life, particularly technology and services. Businesses need to ensure accessibility for:
- Computers and Operating Systems
- Smartphones
- Television Equipment and Broadcasting Services
- Self-Service Terminals (ATMs, ticket machines, check-in kiosks)
- E-books and Digital Publications
- E-commerce Platforms
- Banking Services
- Public Transportation Services
Each product or service must meet detailed technical standards to be legally sold or offered in the EU market.
Who Does the EAA Apply To?
Unlike earlier accessibility directives, the EAA encompasses both public and private sector organizations. It applies to:
- Businesses with at least 10 employees or a turnover exceeding €2 million.
- All businesses, regardless of location, that sell products or services in the EU.
Even companies based outside the EU must comply if they trade within its borders. This global reach underscores the EAA’s importance.
Key Deadlines for EAA Compliance
- June 28, 2022: Member states were required to adopt national laws aligning with the EAA.
- June 28, 2025: The directive becomes enforceable across the EU.
- June 28, 2030: All existing products and services must meet EAA standards.
Check the official timeline here.
European Accessibility Act – Why Should Businesses Care?
Compliance with the EAA is not optional. The risks of non-compliance are substantial:
- Fines and Legal Action: Regulatory authorities can impose significant fines and penalties. In some countries, such as Ireland, violations may even result in prison sentences.
- Market Exclusion: Non-compliant products and services can be removed from the market, limiting business opportunities.
- Reputational Damage: Negative publicity surrounding accessibility failures can harm your brand’s image.
- Loss of Customers: Accessibility attracts a broader audience, including the estimated 100 million Europeans with disabilities who have significant spending power.
Steps to Achieve EAA Compliance
To prepare for the EAA, businesses should take the following steps:
- Conduct an Accessibility Audit: Evaluate your digital and physical products and services for compliance with accessibility standards, such as WCAG 2.1, and WCAG 2.2 for digital assets.
- Develop an Accessibility Plan: Create a roadmap for implementing necessary changes, including timelines, budgets, and resources.
- Train Your Team: Educate your staff on accessibility principles and best practices. This includes developers, designers, and customer service teams.
- Engage Experts: Consult with accessibility specialists to guide your compliance efforts and ensure your solutions are effective and user-friendly.
- Monitor and Iterate: Regularly test your products and services to ensure ongoing compliance and improve the user experience.
Balancing Accessibility and Creativity
Some businesses may worry that accessibility requirements will stifle creativity, particularly in design-focused industries. However, accessibility and innovation can go hand in hand. By embracing inclusive design principles, businesses can:
- Improve the overall user experience for all customers.
- Gain a competitive edge by reaching untapped markets.
- Foster a culture of innovation that inspires new solutions.
The Benefits of Accessibility
Beyond compliance, prioritizing accessibility offers numerous advantages:
- Expanded Market Reach: Accessibility opens your business to a broader audience, including individuals with disabilities and older adults.
- Enhanced Customer Loyalty: Accessible products and services demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity, fostering trust and long-term relationships.
- Cost Savings: Unified accessibility standards reduce duplication of effort and simplify cross-border trade.
- Positive Brand Reputation: Being a leader in accessibility positions your business as socially responsible and forward-thinking.
Invedus: Your Partner in Accessibility Compliance
Navigating the complexities of the European Accessibility Act can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Invedus, we offer expert guidance to help businesses audit, design, and implement accessible products and services. From digital accessibility testing to staff training, we provide end-to-end solutions tailored to your needs.
Our offerings include software development services to build accessible websites and apps, and digital marketing strategies that ensure compliance with accessibility standards, helping you reach a wider audience effectively.
Contact us today to ensure your business is EAA-compliant and ready to thrive in an inclusive marketplace.
Afterword
The European Accessibility Act is more than a regulatory requirement; it’s an opportunity for businesses to lead the way in inclusivity and innovation. By taking proactive steps now, your organization can meet the June 2025 deadline, avoid penalties, and gain a competitive advantage in the evolving market.
Ready to get started? Let’s build a more accessible future together.