The European Accessibility Act: A Simple Guide for Irish Businesses

The digital landscape in Ireland and the EU has changed. As of June 28, 2025, the European Accessibility Act (EAA) is now law, and it has significant implications for your business.

If you’re a business owner, you’re likely asking, “What does this mean for me?” and “What do I need to do right now?” Here we will help you understand your new obligations and provide you with some simple steps you can take to get started today.

The European Accessibility Act is Now the Law

The EAA mandates that digital services like e-commerce, banking, and public transport must be accessible to people with disabilities. 

 

The goal is to create a more inclusive single market where everyone can participate fully in the digital economy.

 

In Ireland, national authorities like the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) and the National Disability Authority (NDA) are responsible for oversight. Failure to comply can lead to significant penalties, including fines up to €60,000 and the potential for legal action.

But this isn’t just about avoiding penalties. It’s a strategic opportunity for your business to grow and thrive in a more inclusive market.

Compliance Isn’t Just a Box to Tick – It’s a Benefit to Your Business

  • Market Expansion: You can confidently reach the 1 in 5 people in the EU living with a disability—a significant, untapped market segment.
  • Reputation & Trust: A compliant website or app signals to all customers that your brand is modern, responsible, and inclusive.
  • Improved User Experience: Accessibility features—like clear navigation and easy-to-read text—benefit everyone, leading to a better user experience and higher conversion rates.
  • Enhanced SEO: Accessible websites are often better structured and more semantic, which are key factors in how search engines like Google rank content.

About OPEN Design and Digital

We’re a Dublin design studio, experts in web design, online marketing and branding. Our mission: boost your business with captivating websites, meaningful content, and innovative design. Need a fresh website or a brand makeover? Let’s talk!

You can also email us at info@weareopen.ie or call on 01 685 3550.

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