We all know that making your online store accessible to everyone is not just a nice thing to do - it’s become a legal requirement. If you’re a Shopify merchant selling to customers in the European Union (EU), there’s a new regulation you need to know about: the European Accessibility Act (EAA). This law is set to take effect in June 2025, and it will have a big impact on how e-commerce businesses operate. In this blog, we’ll break down what the EAA means for you, how it affects your store, and what steps you can take to prepare.

What is the European Accessibility Act?

The European Accessibility Act is a law passed by the EU to make sure that products and services are accessible to people with disabilities. The goal is to create a more inclusive digital environment where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can shop, browse, and interact online without barriers.

For e-commerce merchants, this means your online store must meet specific accessibility standards by June 2025. If you sell to customers in the EU - even if your business is based outside the EU - you’ll need to comply with these rules. This includes everything from your website design to how customers navigate your store and complete purchases.

The good news? Making your store accessible isn’t just about following the law. It’s also a chance to improve your business and reach more customers.

Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty.

Who Does the European Accessibility Act Apply To?

The EAA applies to all businesses that sell products or services in the EU. This includes Shopify merchants, whether you’re based in Europe or not. If you have customers in the EU, you’ll need to make sure your online store meets the Act’s requirements.

Here’s the key takeaway: If your Shopify store is accessible to EU customers, it falls under the scope of the EAA. This means you’ll need to take steps to make sure your website and mobile app (if you have one) are accessible to people with disabilities. Basically, no matter where you are located, if you sell in the EU this law is for you.

What Are the Key Accessibility Requirements for E-Commerce?

The EAA requires online stores to meet the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 standards. These guidelines are designed to make websites and apps usable for people with disabilities, such as those who are blind, deaf, or have mobility issues.

Here are some of the main requirements for e-commerce businesses:

1. Accessible Website Design
   Your website should be easy to navigate for everyone. This includes people who use screen readers or rely on keyboard navigation instead of a mouse.
2. Product Descriptions and Checkout Pages
   All text, including product descriptions and checkout instructions, should be clear and easy to read. Buttons and links must be labeled properly so they make sense when read aloud by a screen reader.
3. Alternative Text for Images
   Every image on your site, including product photos and banners, should have alternative text (alt text). This helps people who use screen readers understand what the image shows.
4. Keyboard Navigation
   Your website should be fully navigable using only a keyboard. This is important for people who can’t use a mouse due to mobility issues.
5. Forms and Customer Interactions
   Forms, such as those for signing up or checking out, should be easy to fill out. This includes providing clear instructions and error messages.
6. Multimedia Accessibility
   If you use videos or audio content, make sure they have captions or transcripts. This helps people who are deaf or hard of hearing.

What Products and Services Are Affected?

The EAA doesn’t just apply to e-commerce websites. It covers a wide range of products and services, including:

• E-commerce platforms (websites and mobile apps must be accessible).
• ATMs, ticketing machines, and self-service kiosks.
• Banking and financial services.
• Smartphones, tablets, and computers.
• Electronic communications (telecom services, TV interfaces, etc.).
• Public transport ticketing and real-time travel information systems.
• E-books and related reading software.

For Shopify merchants, the focus is on your online store. But if you sell physical products that fall into any of these categories, you’ll need to make sure they’re accessible too.

How Shopify Merchants Can Prepare for EAA Compliance

Getting your Shopify store ready for the EAA might sound overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare:

Step 1: Audit Your Store’s Accessibility

The first step is to find out how accessible your store is right now. You can use free tools like WAVE or Google Lighthouse to check your website for accessibility issues. Shopify also has an accessibility checker apps that can help you identify areas for improvement.

Step 2: Implement Accessible Design Changes

Once you know what needs fixing, start making changes. Here are some ideas:

• Choose an accessible Shopify theme: Some themes are designed with accessibility in mind. Look for one that meets WCAG 2.1 standards.
• Improve contrast and readability: Make sure text stands out against the background and is easy to read. Use larger font sizes where needed.
• Add keyboard-friendly navigation: Test your site to make sure it can be navigated using only a keyboard.
• Make forms easy to use: Ensure all form fields are clearly labeled and error messages are helpful.

Step 3: Optimize Content for Accessibility

Your content plays a big role in accessibility. Here’s how to make it more inclusive:

• Add alt text to images: Describe every image so screen readers can explain it to users.
• Provide captions for videos: If you use videos, add captions or transcripts.
• Use clear language: Avoid jargon and make sure instructions are easy to understand.

Step 4: Test and Monitor

Accessibility isn’t a one-time task. It’s something you’ll need to keep working on. Here’s how to stay on top of it:

• Get feedback from users with disabilities: Ask for input from people who use assistive technologies.
• Regularly test your site: As you add new content or features, check for accessibility issues.
• Stay updated: Keep an eye on any changes to the EAA or WCAG guidelines.

Why Accessibility is a Business Opportunity

Complying with the EAA isn’t just about avoiding fines or legal trouble. It’s also a chance to grow your business. Here’s how:

1. Reach More Customers
   Over 135 million people in the EU have disabilities. By making your store accessible, you open your business to a huge audience that might otherwise be unable to shop with you.
2. Improve SEO
   Accessible websites tend to rank higher in search engines like Google. This means better visibility and more traffic for your store.
3. Reduce Legal Risks
   Non-compliance with the EAA could lead to fines or restrictions on your store. By following the rules, you protect your business from these risks.
4. Better User Experience
   Accessibility improvements often make your store easier to use for everyone, not just people with disabilities. This can lead to happier customers and more sales.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

The European Accessibility Act is a big deal for Shopify merchants, but it’s also an opportunity to make your store more inclusive and user-friendly. With the deadline set for June 2025, now is the time to start preparing.

Here’s a quick checklist to help you get started:

• Audit your store’s accessibility using tools like WAVE or Lighthouse.
• Choose an accessible Shopify theme and make design improvements.
• Add alt text to images, captions to videos, and clear labels to forms.
• Test your site regularly and get feedback from users with disabilities.
• Stay informed about the EAA and WCAG guidelines.

By taking these steps, you’ll not only comply with the law but also create a better shopping experience for all your customers.

Remember, accessibility is a journey. Start early, take it step by step, and you’ll be ready when the EAA comes into effect. Your customers - and your business - will thank you.