The European Accessibility Act (EAA) is more than just a regulatory framework; it’s a call to action for businesses to embrace inclusivity and accessibility. Since the 2025 deadline is rapidly approaching, it is necessary to act toward its implementation. In this blog, we will learn more about the EAA and why it is crucial now more than ever before for businesses, and how following the act’s guiding principles can bring success to companies like yours.
The European Accessibility Act and Its Importance
The EAA, formally known as Directive (EU) 2019/882, was designed to fill the gap of common accessibility guidelines across the European Union. Its goals are twofold: to increase accessibility for people with disabilities and to introduce Europeanization of standards for each EU organization, public as well as private.
The Urgency of Implementing EAA in Your Business
Compliance with the EAA becomes enforceable from June 28, 2025. Companies that delay their submissions could end up in legal troubles and suffer penalties or loss of their reputation. Most firms also face the risk of losing customers who use their services. Currently, there are over 87 million Europeans with a disability, and such companies risk losing out on those consumers.
The business case for implementing accessibility is clear. Studies show that 71 percent of users with disabilities abandon inaccessible websites immediately, choosing instead to take their business elsewhere. Businesses that invest in accessibility see a 20 percent increase in overall traffic, and in a report from Accenture, businesses that championed inclusion for disability achieved around 28 percent higher revenues. On the other hand, businesses that neglect accessibility, risk losing customers and their reputation in an increasingly inclusive market.
Five Reasons Your Business Can Benefit by Implementing EAA
- Stay Ahead of Regulatory Deadlines
Early compliance ensures your business meets the act’s requirements well before the deadline, avoiding last-minute challenges and rushed implementations. - Strengthen Brand Credibility
By following accessibility standards early, you demonstrate your dedication to an inclusive brand while earning the status of a top industry performer.
- Leverage Accessibility as a Growth Opportunity
When businesses make their products accessible, they can develop new ideas and serve more users and reach markets that were unreachable before.
- Enhance Workforce Productivity
Better tools and systems simplify work processes and make employees happier, especially when teams include people with unique tastes.
- Build Future-Ready Business Practices
Investing in accessibility now ensures your business remains competitive and adaptable as societal and technological demands evolve.
Navigating the complexities of EAA compliance can be challenging, but Amnet simplifies the process with its expertise in accessibility solutions.
Let Amnet help you ensure your business is ready for EAA compliance. Contact us today to get started.
References
- https://www.levelaccess.com/compliance-overview/european-accessibility-act-eaa/.
- https://blog.wonderful.io/71-of-customers-with-accessibility-needs-will-click-away-from-a-website-that-they-find-difficult-to-use/.
- https://shftrs.com/articles/20-essential-trends-and-insights-about-digital-accessibility-testing-in-2024.
- https://www.netguru.com/blog/digital-accessibility-standards?utm_source=chatgpt.com.
