Web accessibility is no longer just a “nice-to-have” feature for small business websites—it’s becoming a legal necessity across the European Union. With The European Accessibility Act (EAA) enforcement deadline set for 28 June 2025, it’s crucial that small business owners understand what this legislation means, and how to prepare.
What is the European Accessibility Act?
The European Accessibility Act is an EU directive aimed at ensuring that people with disabilities have equal access to key products and services, both online and offline. This includes everything from ATMs and e-readers to e-commerce websites and mobile applications.
The act was adopted in 2019, but the official compliance deadline for EU member states and affected businesses is fast approaching in mid-2025. The goal is to harmonise accessibility standards across Europe, reducing barriers for users and making digital products and services more inclusive.
Who Needs to Comply?
While the legislation primarily targets larger businesses and public sector organisations, small businesses are not automatically exempt. If your business provides digital services to the public—like an online shop, booking system, or information portal—you may be required to comply, especially if:
- You trade across EU borders
- You receive public funding or contracts
- You offer essential services like banking, e-commerce, or transport
- You operate in a B2B sector where accessibility is a client requirement
In short, if your website plays a key role in delivering your services, web accessibility should be on your radar.
What Does the Act Mean for Your Website?
Under the EAA, websites and mobile apps must meet recognised accessibility standards. The most widely accepted benchmark is WCAG 2.1 (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), Level AA. These standards ensure that your digital content is:
- Perceivable – content must be presented in ways users can perceive (e.g. using alt text for images)
- Operable – interface elements must be usable via keyboard or assistive technologies
- Understandable – content must be clear and readable
- Robust – content should work reliably with a wide range of devices and assistive software
Failure to meet these standards could lead to complaints, fines, or reputational damage, especially once the EAA takes full effect.
Why Accessibility Matters Beyond Compliance
Web accessibility isn’t just about avoiding penalties—it’s about creating a better user experience for everyone. By designing inclusively, you:
- Reach a wider audience (including over 100 million EU citizens with disabilities)
- Improve usability for all users (think of older users or those with slow internet)
- Boost SEO performance (search engines love accessible, well-structured content)
- Future-proof your website as accessibility regulations continue to evolve
It’s also a clear demonstration of your values. Customers are increasingly loyal to brands that promote equality, diversity, and ethical practices.
Steps Small Businesses Can Take Now
- Audit your websiteUse free tools like WAVE or Lighthouse to identify accessibility issues.
- Fix common issuesAdd alt text, improve colour contrast, enable keyboard navigation, and ensure your headings and forms are structured properly.
- Use accessible themes and pluginsIf you use WordPress, choose themes and plugins that prioritise accessibility. The WordPress Accessibility Teamoffers useful guidance.
- Get expert helpConsider working with a web designer or developer experienced in accessibility. The cost is often modest compared to the potential consequences of non-compliance.
- Educate yourself and your teamEven small changes—like writing meaningful link text or using plain language—can make a big difference.
Final Thoughts
The European Accessibility Act is a wake-up call for small businesses to take web accessibility seriously. While the 2025 deadline may seem distant, making meaningful changes now will put you ahead of the curve—and show your customers that you care about inclusivity.
If you’re unsure where to start, now is the perfect time to audit your website and plan your accessibility improvements. Not only will you be preparing for compliance, but you’ll also be building a better web experience for everyone.
Need help making your website accessible? Get in touch today to find out how Sitecrafter can help you future-proof your site with inclusive design that meets the latest EU standards.
