Accessibility is now a global mandate for eCommerce
Compliance & EAAThe European Accessibility Act (EAA) took effect on June 28, 2025, requiring all businesses selling into the EU to meet WCAG 2.1 AA standards. The UK’s Equality Act remains in force as well. Failing to comply isn’t just risky—it can mean steep fines, reputational damage, and lost access to millions of European customers.
Maximum fine per violation under the EAA
Source: EU commision
of eCommerce leaders admit they’re not fully prepared for the EAA
Source: accessiBe
Fine issued in Germany in 2025 for checkout alt-text failures
Source: accessibilitytest
“People with disabilities represent a huge portion of the global population, and when you include family and friends, the community is even larger. Together, this community represents over $13 trillion in annual global spending power.”
Impact on eCommerce holiday season
This holiday season, the EAA makes accessibility non-negotiable for anyone selling into the EU. Compliance is the cost of entry. Retailers who build accessibility into design will avoid penalties, cut abandonment, and earn loyalty. Yet only a fraction of retailers feel “fully prepared” for the EAA—leaving most scrambling as enforcement begins.
Behind this research
Our eCommerce trends survey, conducted in partnership with Qualtrics, non-profit leaders, and disability community organizations, gathered insights from over 300 eCommerce leaders, decision-makers, and members of the disability community. This collaboration ensures the research reflects both industry priorities and lived experiences.
