Digital Accessibility: What Changes for Websites & E-shops
As of June 28, 2025, digital accessibility is no longer simply a “best practice” — it is a legal obligation for thousands of businesses in Greece and across Europe.
Law 4994/2022, which incorporates European Directive 2019/882 (European Accessibility Act), introduces new requirements regarding how digital services must be designed and operated to ensure they are accessible to all users — including individuals with disabilities.
Compliance is not only about the law. It is about the future of your digital presence.
Which Businesses Are Affected
The obligation applies to businesses that:
- Employ more than 10 employees
- Have an annual turnover exceeding €2 million
- Provide digital services or products to public sector bodies
Very small businesses are currently exempt. However, compliance with accessibility standards serves as a clear indication of credibility and professionalism — regardless of company size.
For legal guidance specific to your business, consultation with a specialized legal advisor is recommended.
What “Accessible Website” Means in Practice
Although the law does not explicitly name a specific technical standard, its requirements are largely aligned with the WCAG 2.1 guidelines (Level AA).
In practice, this means that a website or e-shop must include:
- Alternative text (alt text) for all images
- Subtitles and accessible controls for videos
- Proper color contrast for readability
- Clear heading hierarchy (H1, H2, H3)
- Full keyboard navigation functionality
- Compatibility with screen readers
- An accessibility statement published on the website
Accessibility is a combination of design, development, and proper content structure.
What a Non-Compliant Business Risks
Failure to comply may result in:
- Administrative fines
- Loss of partnerships with public or large organizations
- Legal claims
- Negative publicity
In an environment where brand trust directly impacts sales, digital inclusion plays a critical role.
Accessibility as a Competitive Advantage
Beyond legal obligation, compliance creates strategic benefits:
1. Access to a Broader Audience
More than 100 million Europeans live with some form of disability. An accessible website means more potential customers.
2. Improved SEO Performance
Proper structure, alt texts, and clear content hierarchy help search engines better understand your website.
3. Strengthened Corporate Image
Accessibility demonstrates social responsibility and a modern business culture.
4. Better UX for Everyone
Accessibility improvements make the user experience clearer and more functional for every visitor — not only individuals with disabilities.
How We Approach Digital Accessibility at Digital4u
At Digital4u, we treat accessibility as part of a comprehensive digital growth strategy.
Our process includes:
Detailed Accessibility Audit
We evaluate technical, structural, and functional elements of your website using specialized tools and manual testing.
Technical & Design Optimization
We implement code corrections, improve contrast, refine semantic structure, and apply UI adjustments.
Accessibility Statement Preparation
We provide the necessary documentation and guidance for its proper publication.
Ongoing Maintenance Strategy
Compliance is not a one-off action. We provide clear guidelines to maintain accessibility during future upgrades.
Is Your Website Ready?
Digital accessibility is not just about legal protection. It is about the sustainability and evolution of your online presence.
If you are unsure about your website’s level of compliance, we can conduct an initial assessment and recommend the next steps.
Contact Digital4u and ensure your website is ready for the new digital era.
