Digital Accessibility
The internet should be accessible to everyone, and with the accessibility directive coming into force for e‑commerce in June 2025, it becomes even more important to meet these requirements. By actively working with digital accessibility adaptation, we create solutions that are inclusive and accessible to all users. This not only contributes to a more inclusive digital environment but also ensures that your e‑commerce complies with current legislation and guidelines, thereby strengthening both your brand and your customer base.
Digital accessibility for everyone
Digital accessibility is about designing and developing websites and digital services so they are useable for as many people as possible, regardless of capability. The accessibility directive, an EU initiative, aims to ensure that digital products and services are accessible to everyone and, as of June 2025, places clear requirements on e‑commerce platforms and other digital tools to be designed to include persons with disabilities.
For e‑commerce, this means digital services must be adapted to ensure a smooth and inclusive user experience. By eliminating unnecessary barriers and following established guidelines, companies can create e‑commerce solutions that work for everyone, regardless of individual needs and conditions.
Meeting these requirements is not only a matter of legislation – it is an opportunity to improve customer experience and ensure more people can access digital services without limitations. By actively working on digital accessibility, companies can strengthen their competitiveness, improve usability, and contribute to a more inclusive digital environment.
Important requirements for e‑commerce according to the EU's accessibility directive
As of June 28, 2025, e‑commerce companies must meet new requirements for digital accessibility according to the EU's accessibility directive. These regulations aim to ensure that digital services and products become more accessible to people with disabilities. Here are the key requirements and what they mean:
Clear text and contrast
Ensure that the text on the website is of sufficient size and contrasts well against the background to facilitate readability for persons with visual impairments.
Navigation without a mouse
Enable users to navigate the website with the keyboard or other assistive tools, without relying on a mouse.
Alt-texts for images
Use descriptive alt-texts for all images so that screen readers can convey the image content to users with visual impairments.
Subtitles and audio descriptions
Provide videos with subtitles and audio descriptions to make the content accessible to persons with hearing or visual impairments.
Form management
Design forms with clear labels and instructions, ensuring they are navigable with assistive tools.
Responsive design
Adapt the website's layout to work on different devices and screen sizes, including assistive tools such as screen readers.
By implementing these measures, e‑commerce companies can not only comply with upcoming legal requirements but also improve the user experience for all customers, which in turn can lead to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Learn more about the EU's accessibility directive at the Agency for Participation or contact us.
Frequently asked questions about the accessibility directive for e‑commerce
Here we have compiled answers to some of the most common questions about the accessibility directive for e‑commerce. If you have further questions, you are warmly welcome to contact us!
What does the accessibility directive mean for e‑commerce operators?
The accessibility directive means that from June 2025, e‑commerce platforms must meet specific requirements for digital accessibility. This means that web shops should be adapted for people with disabilities, for instance through clear navigation and compatibility with assistive tools.
How do I know if my e‑commerce meets the accessibility directive?
There are tools to test accessibility, such as the WCAG standard. At Webbhuset, we can conduct an analysis of your e‑commerce platform and identify areas for improvement to ensure you comply with the directive.
What happens if my e‑commerce does not meet the accessibility directive?
Companies that do not comply with the directive may risk fines or other sanctions. Additionally, it may result in customers with disabilities being unable to use your web shop, which means lost business opportunities.
What are the benefits of making my website accessible?
By adapting your e‑commerce according to the accessibility directive, you reach a broader customer base, improve user experience, and create a more inclusive digital environment. An accessible website often leads to increased conversion, better SEO, and a reduced risk of legal issues. It also shows that your company takes responsibility and works for a more equitable digital commerce.
Contact us today to hear how we can make your e‑commerce accessibility-adapted.
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