Accessibility becomes mandatory: The bfSG (Accessibility Strengthening Act) and what it means for companies

With the entry into force of the Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG) on June 28, 2025, digital participation for all people will be enshrined in law. Companies now face the challenge of making their digital offerings accessible.

For many companies, the BFSG may at first glance seem like just another regulatory hurdle. However, it presents a tremendous opportunity: the chance to reach more people with digital offerings while simultaneously assuming social responsibility. Read our guide to learn exactly what the BFSG means, how it affects your company, and why you shouldn't miss this opportunity.

What exactly is the Accessibility Improvement Act (BFSG)?

The BFSG is a German law based on EU Directive 2019/882, the European Accessibility Act (EAA) . Its goal is to remove barriers and provide everyone with equal access to digital products and services. In our view, this is a great thing.

What exactly does the law regulate?

• Companies that offer digital products or services must ensure that they are accessible.
  
• Affected are, among others, websites , online shops , mobile apps and digital documents.
  
• Accessibility means that content can be read by screen readers, for example, color contrasts are optimized for people with visual impairments, and interactions are possible without a mouse.

The law is an important step towards greater inclusion in the digital world.

Who does the BFSG affect – and why is it important?

The BFSG is aimed at companies that offer products or services to consumers.

That means:

• Manufacturers and retailers : If you offer digital devices such as ATMs, e-readers or payment systems, the law applies to you.
  
• Service providers : From banks to travel providers to online retailers, every industry that provides digital services must act.

Exceptions for micro-enterprises

Small businesses with fewer than ten employees and an annual turnover or annual balance sheet total of no more than two million euros are exempt from the requirements for services. But be careful: There are no exemptions for products. And it's certainly only a matter of time before micro-enterprises also follow the BFSG – better to act now than later.

Why should I care about it now?

In addition to legal requirements, accessibility also offers economic benefits. Approximately 15% of the world's population lives with a disability. By offering accessible services, you can reach this target group and strengthen your brand. You also minimize legal risks and improve your competitive position.

What requirements must companies meet?

The requirements of the BFSG are concrete and clearly defined. Here are the key points:

1. Accessible websites and online shops

Your website must comply with the international standards of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 .

These include:

• Alternative text for images.
• A clear structure with headings and text optimized for screen readers.
• Usability of the website with the keyboard.

2. Mobile Apps

Apps must be accessible to all users.

This includes:

• Voice control.
• Compatibility with screen readers.
• Contrasts that are clearly visible even with visual impairments.

3. Digital documents

Documents such as PDFs must be provided in accessible formats. This means they should be machine-readable and have clear structures.

4. E-commerce

Every step in the purchasing process, from product selection to payment, must be designed to be barrier-free.

media:meets as a partner for accessibility in companies

As an experienced digital marketing agency, we support companies in implementing the BFSG requirements.

We offer:

• Analysis: We analyze your website or webshop based on a checklist for the Federal Data Protection Act (BFSG) and then send you recommendations for action. Of course, we can also implement the recommendations directly for you.
  
• Web development : Creation and optimization of accessible websites and online shops.
  
• Consulting : Individual strategies for implementing accessibility in digital offerings.
  
• Training : Further training of your team in the area of ​​digital accessibility.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the BFSG

To give you a quick overview, we have compiled the most frequently asked questions:

What happens if my company does not meet the requirements?

Non-compliance can result in legal consequences, including fines that vary depending on the severity of the violation. You also risk reputational damage if customers or stakeholders encounter barriers.

How do I find out if my website is accessible?

There are tools like the WAVE Web Accessibility Tool or the Accessibility Checker that allow for an initial analysis. However, a professional review by experts is recommended to ensure that all requirements are met. We are happy to assist you.

Are there financial support options for implementation?

In some cases, subsidy programs or tax breaks can help reduce the costs of the transition. Contact your regional economic development agency or the relevant authorities for more information.

What are the next steps for companies?

Start with an audit of your existing digital offerings. Analyze where barriers exist and create a plan for implementing the requirements step by step. Better now than later, because the workload can be enormous in many cases.

Can media:meets help with implementation?

Yes, as an experienced digital marketing agency, we support you every step of the way – from analysis to implementation. Just send us an email.

Take action now – for a barrier-free future

The Accessibility Improvement Act is not a burdensome obligation, but an opportunity to make the digital world accessible to everyone. Companies that act early benefit not only from legal certainty but also from a broader target audience and a positive image.