Why U.S. Business Owners Need to Prepare for the EU Accessibility Act
The European Accessibility Act (EAA) is set to reshape how businesses operate across borders, introducing stringent requirements for digital accessibility compliance. If your U.S.-based company serves customers or operates within the European Union (EU), now is the time to get ready. The EAA is not just a guideline; it’s a mandatory regulation with significant implications for businesses that fail to comply.
Understanding the EAA
The EAA is designed to ensure that products and services in the EU are accessible to individuals with disabilities. From e-commerce websites to mobile applications, the scope of the EAA is broad, encompassing digital platforms, electronic communications, financial services, eBooks, and more. The legislation aims to remove barriers and foster inclusivity, offering equal access to technology for all EU citizens.
Starting June 28, 2025, businesses operating in the EU must ensure their digital and physical offerings comply with accessibility standards. For U.S. companies with EU customers or operations, failing to meet these requirements could lead to penalties, loss of market access, and reputational damage.
Why U.S. Business Owners Should Act Now
Legal and Financial Ramifications: Non-compliance with the EAA can result in fines and exclusion from the lucrative EU market. Companies that procrastinate risk falling behind competitors who are already implementing compliance strategies.
Customer Expectations: Today’s consumers demand accessible products and services. Aligning with the EAA demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity, which can enhance brand loyalty and customer trust.
Global Accessibility Trends: Accessibility regulations are not confined to the EU. The global momentum toward inclusivity is growing, and adopting these standards positions your business as a leader in accessibility compliance.
Steps to Prepare Your Business for the EAA
Understand the Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the EAA’s accessibility standards, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1. These guidelines serve as a benchmark for creating accessible digital platforms.
Conduct an Accessibility Audit: Evaluate your products and services to identify accessibility gaps. This includes websites, mobile apps, electronic documents, and customer service channels. Partner with accessibility experts to ensure a thorough assessment.
Develop an Accessibility Action Plan: Create a roadmap to address identified gaps. Prioritize fixes based on customer impact and technical feasibility. Ensure your team is trained to implement and maintain accessibility standards.
Engage an Accessibility Partner: Collaborate with specialists who can guide you through compliance requirements. Accessibility experts can help you design, test, and validate your solutions to meet the EAA’s standards.
Monitor and Maintain Compliance: Accessibility is not a one-and-done initiative. Regularly update your digital platforms and train staff to ensure ongoing compliance with evolving regulations.
Final Thoughts
The EAA presents an opportunity for U.S. businesses to embrace accessibility as a core value. By preparing now, you can avoid penalties, enhance customer satisfaction, and gain a competitive edge in the global marketplace. The time to act is now—position your business for success in an inclusive future.
To see if your website is prepared for the EAA Contact Us for a free evaluation.