Introduction
From 28 June 2025, many companies face a new reality: web accessibility is no longer a "nice-to-have" but a MUST. And before you start worrying: don't panic – not every company is affected. Only B2C companies are obliged. But what does that actually mean for your website, your web shop or your web app? What exactly does accessible design look like? And why is it worth getting your online presence into shape right now? Here are the facts!
Yes, you read that right. From 28 June 2025, accessibility is no longer wishful thinking for many websites and digital services but a legal requirement. But before panic sets in: the new German Accessibility Act (Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz, BFSG) does not affect every site – it is primarily relevant for B2C companies.
Accessibility? – What does that actually mean?
Did you know that almost 10% of people in Germany have a severe disability? That is millions of people for whom many websites are simply inaccessible. So what does accessibility mean in this context? Quite simply: digital access for everyone. That includes, for example:
- Strong contrasts for better readability
- Alternative text for images so screen readers can describe the content
- Videos with subtitles or audio descriptions
- Keyboard navigation – for users who cannot use a mouse.
It is about designing websites so that people with different abilities can use them. And that is exactly where the BFSG comes in.
What is the BFSG?
The BFSG is the German implementation of the European Accessibility Act (EAA) and pursues one clear goal: more digital participation. People with impairments should not be left out when it comes to accessing digital products and services. This strengthens inclusion – and makes your online presence accessible to everyone. In short: from 2025, many B2C websites and apps have to follow clear rules on how accessibility must be implemented.
Which companies are affected?
The law targets the B2C sector. In concrete terms: if your online shop, booking page or digital service is aimed at end customers, the BFSG applies to you. If you operate exclusively in B2B, you can breathe a sigh of relief for now – you are not affected yet. There are also exceptions for micro-enterprises with fewer than 10 employees and an annual turnover below two million euros.
What does "accessible" look like in practice?
The BFSG is based on the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), which define three levels:
- Level A – The basic requirements every website has to meet.
- Level AA – The standard for the private sector (yes, that's you).
- Level AAA – The absolute maximum, but optional.
Websites and apps therefore have to be designed so that everyone can use and understand them. The key points once more:
- Clear contrasts and large type: for optimal readability on all devices.
- Text for screen readers: an absolute must for people with visual impairments.
- Keyboard navigation: not everyone can or wants to use a mouse.
- Alt text for images: so people with visual impairments can grasp the content too.
- Videos with subtitles or audio descriptions
Why is it worth it?
Sure, the BFSG makes it mandatory from 2025, but accessibility also has clear advantages:
- A larger audience: more users can use what you offer. Sounds good, doesn't it?
- Better user experience: accessible sites are often more intuitive for everyone.
- SEO boost: search engines frequently rank accessible sites better because they are structured and user-friendly.
- Positive image: it shows you are a modern company that takes inclusion seriously.
Timeline and consequences
The countdown is on: the deadline for the BFSG is 28 June 2025. By then at the latest your website has to be accessible – and that also applies to existing content, which has to be adapted by mid-2030. And what happens if you ignore it? Well, it gets expensive. Market surveillance authorities will check compliance, and violations can lead to fines of up to 100,000 euros. That is a lot – and surely one more reason to take the whole thing seriously!
Conclusion: accessibility is more than a law – it is your opportunity!
Accessibility is not just a law but also an opportunity to open your website to a wider audience. And the positive effects? An accessible site often scores on user experience as well and is a strong signal for inclusion at the same time. The BFSG may feel like an obligation – we see it as a chance to make your company fit for all users. If you are now thinking "sounds important, but how do we tackle this?" – that is exactly what we are here for. We at Wagemut help you understand and implement the requirements of the BFSG. Let's make sure together that your website is accessible to everyone from 2025.
Want more information or ready to get started? Get in touch – we are happy to advise you and find the best route to an accessible website!
Sources:
- https://voll.digital/wissen/barrierefreiheit-website-pflicht
- https://bfsg-gesetz.de/
- https://www.bundesfachstelle-barrierefreiheit.de/SharedDocs/Downloads/DE/Externe-Veroeffentlichungen/bmas-leitlinien-bfsg.pdf?__blob=publicationFile
- https://www.bundesfachstelle-barrierefreiheit.de/DE/Fachwissen/Produkte-und-Dienstleistungen/Barrierefreiheitsstaerkungsgesetz/FAQ/faq_node.html
