The European Accessibility Act (Directive (EU) 2019/882) is reshaping the way organisations across Europe must think about accessibility. From June 2025, all new products and services must be accessible. By June 2030, legacy services and products already on the market must also comply.
This change is part of the EU's Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (2021–2030), which aims to build a Europe where no one is left behind. It touches every sector, from banking and retail to transport, technology, and public services.
For organisations, this isn't just about legal compliance. Accessibility is quickly becoming a core expectation of customers, partners, and regulators. Those who act early will not only reduce risk but also unlock opportunities to improve user experience, expand market reach, and strengthen their reputation.
The Road to 2030
The timeline for compliance is clear and non-negotiable:
2025 Deadline – All new products, websites, and services launched after June 2025 must meet accessibility requirements from day one.
2030 Deadline – Existing products and services that remain in use or under contract must be brought into full compliance.
Penalties – Non-compliance can lead to significant fines, reputational damage, and restricted access to European markets.
Opportunities – Accessible design benefits everyone, improving usability, customer loyalty, and market inclusivity.
This isn't just about avoiding penalties. The European market represents over 450 million consumers, with approximately 87 million people living with disabilities. Organisations that embrace accessibility unlock access to this significant market segment while improving experiences for all users.
What the Rules Mean for You
The European Accessibility Act applies across multiple sectors and service types:
Digital Services: E-commerce platforms, banking services, audiovisual media services, and telecommunications must meet WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards.
Physical Products: ATMs, ticketing machines, payment terminals, and consumer electronics must incorporate accessibility features.
Built Environment: Transport services, accommodation services, and retail environments must provide accessible facilities and services.
Documentation: All organisations must provide accessibility statements, feedback mechanisms, and clear information about accessibility features.
The scope is comprehensive, affecting everything from website design and mobile applications to customer service processes and physical infrastructure.
How Calling All Minds Can Support You
At Calling All Minds (CAM), we specialise in helping organisations navigate accessibility and inclusion requirements with confidence. Our services are designed to take you from compliance to true inclusion:
Accessibility Audits Our detailed assessments identify gaps across your digital and physical environments, delivering clear, actionable solutions with prioritised implementation roadmaps. We don't just tell you what's wrong – we show you exactly how to fix it.
Accessibility Toolbar Our customisable digital toolkit instantly enhances your website and application accessibility. Users can adjust text size, contrast, navigation preferences, and more, ensuring your digital presence works for everyone.
AXS Passport An innovative digital passport that allows individuals to share their accessibility preferences securely and confidentially. This groundbreaking tool makes engagement seamless and inclusive, reducing barriers while respecting privacy.
Training and Consultancy We provide comprehensive training programmes that build internal accessibility expertise, ensuring your teams understand both the technical requirements and the human impact of inclusive design.
We don't just help you comply – we help you lead in creating environments where everyone can participate fully.
Why Act Now?
The countdown to 2030 is already ticking, but the benefits of early action extend far beyond compliance:
Risk Mitigation: Avoid last-minute rushes, reduce compliance costs, and prevent potential penalties or market access restrictions.
Competitive Advantage: Demonstrate leadership in accessibility and inclusion, differentiating your organisation in increasingly conscious markets.
Innovation Catalyst: Accessibility requirements often drive innovation, leading to solutions that benefit all users and create new market opportunities.
Reputation Building: Show commitment to social responsibility and inclusive values that resonate with customers, partners, and employees.
Market Expansion: Access previously underserved markets and customer segments, driving growth through inclusion.
Take the Next Step
Is your organisation ready for the European Accessibility Act? Don't wait until deadlines become problems. The organisations that start preparing now will be the ones that thrive in the accessible future.
Partner with Calling All Minds to ensure you're not just compliant, but confident and inclusive. We understand that accessibility isn't just about meeting standards – it's about creating environments where everyone can participate, contribute, and succeed.
Ready to begin your accessibility journey?
Contact us today to schedule your comprehensive Accessibility Audit or learn more about our Toolbar and AXS Passport solutions. Together, we can make accessibility your competitive advantage.
Get in touch: [hello@callingallminds.com](mailto:hello@callingallminds.com)
The future is accessible. The question is: will you lead the way or follow behind?
