Bridging the accessibility gap: the strategic imperative of the European Accessibility Act

20 May 2026

The European Accessibility Act (EAA) introduces harmonised, legally enforceable accessibility requirements across the EU, with significant implications for businesses developing or offering digital and physical products and services. From 28 June 2025, organisations placing products or services on the EU market – including consumer technology, banking platforms and e‑commerce – must comply with new standards designed to ensure accessibility for people with disabilities. This briefing examines the scope and global reach of the EAA, its core compliance requirements, the consequences of non‑compliance and the limited exemptions available, alongside the practical steps organisations can take to embed accessibility into their operations and the broader opportunity it presents as a driver of innovation and competitive advantage.

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