Digital accessibility is becoming increasingly important in e-commerce – partly because it will be legally required starting in June 2025. With the EAA, new requirements are being introduced for businesses offering digital products and services. But what does accessible e-commerce mean, why is it important, and how will the new law affect online shops?
Table of contents
Table of contents
What does accessibility in e-commerce mean?
An accessible online shop allows everyone – regardless of any limitations – to use products and services with ease. This applies to both the technical implementation and the design of the user interface and content.
An accessible online store is characterized by the following features:
- ✔ Clear and intuitive navigation, making it easy for all users to find their way around
- ✔ Readable text and understandable content for better user experience
- ✔ Alternatives for visual and auditory content, such as subtitles for videos
- ✔ Keyboard and assistive technology accessibility to ensure all users can access the site
In e-commerce, it’s crucial that customers can go through the entire purchase process without limitations – from selecting products to checking out. Accessibility reduces cart abandonment and improves the conversion rate.
What is the EAA?
The EAA will come into effect on June 28, 2025, and aims to ensure that digital services and products are accessible to everyone. It implements an EU directive on digital accessibility and affects, among others, online shops, digital sales platforms, and software providers.
Although not every online shop will be directly affected by the legal requirements, digital accessibility is increasingly becoming a standard in e-commerce. Businesses that act early not only improve user-friendliness but also secure themselves legally and economically.
An accessible online shop provides a better user experience, attracts more potential customers, and ensures long-term competitiveness.