The European Accessibility Act (EAA), approved back in 2019, exist to make websites and digital content a more accessible place. Now, six years later, it’s changing drastically, changing the way businesses across the EU design and maintain their digital products.
From 28th June 2025, websites and digital services must meet new accessibility standards, ensuring they are usable by people with disabilities. Whether you’re a retailer, service provider, or content creator, these changes affect you.
What is the European Accessibility Act?
The EAA is an EU directive requiring member states to implement local laws that ensure certain consumer-facing products and services meet minimum accessibility requirements. The goal is to make websites and apps accessible to millions of people with disabilities, creating a more inclusive digital environment.
Why should you care?
Accessibility is more than a legal checkbox. Making your website accessible also:
- Expands your audience to over 80 million people with disabilities in the EU
- Improves user experience for everyone - including those on mobile devices, older adults, or users with slow internet
- Boosts your SEO rankings by ensuring clean, well-structured content
- Demonstrates your brand’s commitment to inclusion and social responsibility
European Accessibility Act (2025): Key dates
28th June 2025: New websites and digital services launched after this date must comply with accessibility laws.
28th June 2030: All existing websites must be fully compliant.
The risks of non-compliance
Non-compliance could result in fines or penalties that vary by country - and even criminal charges in some cases. For many businesses, early action can prevent costly disruptions later.
The benefits of compliance
Well, for starters, it’s a stand for inclusion and the right thing to do. It shows your commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion by jumping on this early and shouting from the rooftops about it so others can do the same.
Taking action empowers every visitor to access your content and services with dignity and ease. Be that brand that leads with purpose.
How can we help you get ready for the 2025 EAA?
At Brew, we specialise in digital accessibility. We’ll offer:
A thorough FREE accessibility audit of your current website
Based on this audit, we can then offer:
- Expert updates to design and code to meet EAA standards
- Ongoing monitoring and support to keep your site compliant
Don’t wait for the deadline. Contact us today to ensure you’ve future-proofed your website.
Matt Bowell
Matt has been in marketing for 25 years, clocking up many years for institutions like the NHS, the BBC, Comic Relief, Goodyear Dunlop, and Lonely Planet in the UK and abroad. Matt leads the client service team as one of Brew’s directors.
