On 28.06.2025 , the Accessibility Enhancement Act (BFSG) will largely come into force. The Act implements European Directive (EU) 2019/882 on accessibility requirements for products and services (European Accessibility Act – EEA). The goal is to provide people with disabilities with equal access to digital products and services.
This results in specific new requirements for numerous companies, particularly operators of websites, online shops, and applications. Companies that provide digital services to consumers are affected—the only exceptions are micro-enterprises with fewer than 10 employees and an annual turnover not exceeding EUR 2 million—though this exemption applies to services only.
The most important obligations concern the accessible design of websites and online shops. These include requirements for perceptibility, operability, and comprehensibility, as well as compatibility with assistive technologies such as screen readers. In addition, companies must offer accessible feedback mechanisms for reporting accessibility barriers.
If your company falls under the provisions of the BFSG, companies must ensure compliance with the applicable legal requirements by June 28, 2025 at the latest.
Violations of the BFSG may constitute administrative offenses and are subject to fines of up to EUR 100,000. There is also a risk of receiving warnings under competition law. Companies should promptly check whether they are affected and whether their digital offerings comply with the legal requirements. If action is still needed, we recommend immediate implementation.
If you have any questions regarding these topics or any other legal requirements related to e-commerce and digital offerings, we would be pleased to assist you.