Accessible websites will be mandatory in 2025 - Evernine answers the most important questions

On June 28, 2025, the Accessibility Improvement Act (Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz – BFSG) will come into force, making digital accessibility mandatory for many companies. What does this mean for companies and their websites? Evernine answers the most important questions.

 Who is subject to the accessibility obligation?

The obligation particularly affects companies that offer products and services directly to end consumers. These include e-commerce websites, banks, passenger transportation services and media services. Micro-enterprises with fewer than ten employees and an annual turnover or annual balance sheet total of no more than EUR 2 million are exempt from this obligation.

 According to which legal requirements does the obligation apply?

The legal requirements are based on the Accessibility Improvement Act (Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz – BFSG), which implements the requirements of the European Accessibility Act (EAA). The specific technical standards for accessibility are set out in the European standard EN 301 549, which in turn is based on the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). 

 What do companies need to bear in mind when implementing it?

Companies should ensure that their digital offerings meet the requirements of EN 301 549 and WCAG. This includes ensuring that websites are accessible for people with different disabilities, for example by providing alternative text for images, sufficient contrast and a clear navigation structure. It is advisable to start planning and implementation at an early stage, as adaptation can be time-consuming depending on the scope of the website.

 How do companies find out what level of accessibility they already meet?

There are various tools and tests that companies can use to check the current accessibility status of their websites. For example, the BIK (barrierefrei informieren und kommunizieren - accessible information and communication) initiative offers the BITV test, which checks websites for conformity with the Barrier-free Information Technology Ordinance (BITV). There are also self-assessment tools such as the WAVE Accessibility Checker from WebAIM, which companies can use to carry out their own initial assessment. 

 Why is this relevant for every company?

Even if not all companies are legally obliged to be accessible, an accessible website offers numerous advantages. It enables all users to access content, regardless of any limitations, improves the overall user experience and increases reach and search engine rankings. It also strengthens the image of companies as responsible and inclusive.

 What specifically do companies need to implement in order to achieve accessibility?

To ensure accessibility, companies should implement the following measures, among others:

• Alternative texts for images: Providing text descriptions for visual content so that screen readers can capture it.
  
  
• Sufficient contrast: Ensure that texts and backgrounds have a high contrast to improve readability.
  
  
• Clear navigation structure: Simple and consistent navigation that makes it easy for users to find their way around the website.
  
  
• Keyboard operability: All functions should also be accessible without a mouse, using only the keyboard.
  
  
• Avoidance of flashing content: Avoiding content that flickers or flashes so as not to distract users or affect their health.

 Evernine supports the implementation of accessibility and beyond

Do you need support with the barrier-free optimization of your website or do you want to redesign your entire web presence? We are the right partner at your side! Evernine offers companies comprehensive support in implementing the legal requirements for accessibility. As an experienced full-service agency and communications consultancy, Evernine analyzes the current status of your website, identifies acute needs for action and develops a tailor-made roadmap for the implementation of accessibility and beyond for the future-proof design of your website.

For more information or to arrange a free consultation, please contact us at imakeyoudigital@evernine.de.