On 28.06.2025 The Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG) largely comes into force. The law serves to implement the European Directive (EU) 2019/882 on accessibility requirements for products and services (European Accessibility Act – EEA). Its aim is to enable people with disabilities to have equal access to digital and technical offerings.
This results in concrete new requirements for numerous companies, especially operators of websites, online shops, and apps. Companies that provide digital services to consumers are affected – the only exceptions are micro-enterprises with fewer than 10 employees and up to €2 million in annual revenue (but this only applies to services).
The most important obligations concern the accessible design of websites and online shops. This includes requirements for perceivability, usability, and comprehensibility, as well as compatibility with assistive technologies such as screen readers. In addition, companies must offer accessible feedback options for reporting barriers.
If your company falls under the regulations of the BFSG, the implementation of the legal requirements must be completed by June 28, 2025 at the latest.
Violations of the German Federal Data Protection Act (BFSG) can be prosecuted as administrative offenses with fines of up to €100,000. Furthermore, there is a risk of receiving cease-and-desist letters under competition law. Companies should promptly review whether they are affected and whether their digital offerings comply with the legal requirements. If action is still required, we recommend immediate implementation.
If you have any questions about these topics or any other legal requirements related to e-commerce and digital offerings, we are always happy to assist you.