Das Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz und seine Folgen für Website-Betreibende

Written by
Published on
Last modified on
Maximilian Hohenstatt
30. Januar 2025
3. Februar 2025

Who is affected?
The Accessibility Reinforcement Act (BFSG) affects all companies that offer, manufacture or market products or services. This includes, for example, all web stores and websites that offer the option of ordering goods or services. Manufacturers of products are also obliged to comply with the requirements, regardless of their size.
Exceptions apply to micro-enterprises with fewer than 10 employees or an annual turnover of less than EUR 2 million, provided they do not manufacture any products.
Companies should make their websites and apps accessible in accordance with the WCAG standards by June 28, 2025. Violations of the BFSG can result in sales bans, warnings and fines of up to 100,000 euros.

Requirements for accessible websites
A website is considered accessible if it can be used by all people without restriction, regardless of limitations in seeing, hearing, moving or processing information. In some cases, a separate accessible version of a website can be provided, as long as it offers the same content and functionality and is equally accessible. However, this is not considered best practice, as a single accessible main site is usually more efficient and user-friendly.
Examples of concrete measures for implementation are
- Sufficient contrast between foreground and background colors.
- Alternative texts for images so that screen readers can interpret them.
- Subtitles for videos to make them accessible for deaf and hard of hearing people.
- Full keyboard operability of the website for people with motor impairments.
- Accessibility statement: This must be published on the website and describes how the requirements are met and which areas may still have barriers.

Deadlines and transitional arrangements
The implementation of the BFSG begins on June 28, 2025. Even if there are transition periods for certain companies, a timely and systematic implementation of the necessary measures is recommended - both to avoid legal risks and to ensure the long-term quality of the digital presence.
Support with implementation
The technical implementation of accessibility requires sound expertise in various areas of web development. Non-profit organizations such as "Aktion Mensch" provide information, checklists and testing tools that can support the implementation of the BFSG requirements.
For practical implementation, we recommend working with experts who have experience in the accessible design of websites. A systematic analysis of the existing digital presence forms the basis for an efficient and standard-compliant implementation of accessibility.
We look forward to your inquiry
Book a free initial consultation with our Account Manager Johannes Tsangaris now or contact us by email, phone or LinkedIn.