Why Swiss Companies Should Care About the European Accessibility Act

The Silent Shift in Digital Business – Are You Ready?

Swiss companies have long been known for their precision, quality, and reliability. But now, a quiet regulatory shift in the European Union is bringing accessibility into focus. The European Accessibility Act (EAA) (Directive 2019/882)(Directive 2019/882) (opens in new window) will transform the way businesses operate digitally—and Swiss companies are not exempt.

Switzerland may not be an EU member state, but if you sell digital products, services, or software to EU customers, or if you have contracts with EU-based businesses, you must comply.

Ignoring this regulation could mean:

Lost contracts with EU clients who require accessibility compliance
Being unable to sell to EU customers due to non-compliant websites or platforms
Legal risks and potential fines for failing to meet EU standards

Let's break down what this means for Swiss companies and how to stay ahead of the game.

What is the European Accessibility Act?

The EAA is an EU-wide law requiring digital and physical products to be accessible to people with disabilities. It applies to industries ranging from e-commerce and banking to transport, software, and telecommunications.

From June 28, 2025, businesses must ensure their products and services comply with the accessibility standards outlined in WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines)WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) (opens in new window).

Who Must Comply?

If your business:

Sells products or services in the EU (including online stores and SaaS platforms)
Works with EU-based businesses as a B2B vendor, supplier, or partner
Provides software, digital platforms, or financial services used by EU consumers
Develops mobile apps or self-service kiosks for international clients

Then you must comply with the EAA, even if your company is based in Switzerland.

What Happens If You Ignore Compliance?

Swiss companies that fail to meet the EAA's accessibility requirements may face serious consequences, including:

1. Losing EU Business Contracts

Many EU corporations are updating their procurement policies to ensure all vendors, suppliers, and partners meet accessibility requirements.

If your platform, product, or service is not accessible, you may find yourself excluded from major EU contracts.

2. Being Blocked from Selling in the EU

The EAA is not just about improving accessibility—it is about enforcing compliance. If your website, SaaS platform, or mobile app does not meet WCAG 2.1 AA standardsWCAG 2.1 AA standards (opens in new window), you could be prevented from selling in the EU market.

3. Facing Legal Risks & Fines

The EAA introduces penalties for non-compliance, and fines may vary by country. EU member states are responsible for setting enforcement mechanisms, but businesses that fail to comply risk financial penalties, potential lawsuits, and reputational damage.

For example, under similar laws like the EU Web Accessibility Directive, fines can range from €5,000 to €100,000 per violation depending on the severity of the breach. The EAA is expected to follow a similar model, making non-compliance a significant financial risk.

4. Competitive Disadvantage

Companies that prioritize accessibility will gain a competitive edge by expanding their market reach, improving user experience, and strengthening their reputation. Those who delay will fall behind.

What Will Be Affected?

E-Commerce & Online Platforms

Product pages, checkout processes, loyalty programs, customer support, and subscription services must be accessible
Package tracking systems and return policies must accommodate users with disabilities

Software & SaaS Providers

Swiss SaaS companies must ensure their UI, onboarding flows, and core functionality are accessible
Screen readers, keyboard navigation, and alternative text for images are essential

Banking & Financial Services

Online banking, payment gateways, financial apps, and ATMs must be accessible
Transactions must support users with disabilities through voice navigation or keyboard-friendly interfaces

B2B Contracts & Supply Chain

Swiss consulting firms, agencies, and IT services working with EU clients must ensure contractual compliance with accessibility requirements
Accessibility audits may become a standard part of vendor selection processes

Telecommunications & Streaming Services

Video content, digital media, and online communication platforms must include captions, transcripts, and assistive technology support

What Swiss Companies Need to Do Now

Step 1: Audit Your Digital Accessibility

Conduct an accessibility audit on your website, apps, and digital services. Use tools like axeaxe (opens in new window) and WAVE to check compliance with WCAG 2.1 AA standards.

Step 2: Identify Accessibility Gaps

Many companies assume they are compliant until they perform their first accessibility test. Common problems include:

Poor keyboard navigation
Low contrast making text unreadable
Forms without proper labels
Videos without captions or transcripts
Missing alternative text for images

Step 3: Fix Non-Compliant Features

Ensure:

Websites and apps follow WCAG standards
E-commerce checkout pages are screen-reader-friendly
B2B platforms meet EU procurement requirements

Step 4: Train Your Team

Educate developers, designers, and product managers on accessibility best practices
Provide training on inclusive design and assistive technologies

Step 5: Update Contracts & Business Agreements

If you work with EU companies, expect accessibility clauses in your contracts
Review legal agreements to ensure compliance

Step 6: Implement Accessibility Monitoring

Accessibility is not a one-time fix—it requires ongoing improvements and testing
Regularly update content, software, and interfaces to maintain compliance

The Business Case for Accessibility

Accessibility is not just about avoiding fines—it is about future-proofing your business.

By investing in accessibility now, you:

Improve user experience for all customers
Reduce legal and compliance risks
Open new market opportunities with EU-based companies
Strengthen your company's reputation for innovation and inclusivity

Companies that treat accessibility as a strategic advantage will gain customer trust, secure contracts, and stand out in a highly competitive market.

Final Thoughts: Take Action Before It's Too Late

The European Accessibility Act is not a distant regulation—it is a reality that will reshape how businesses operate in the EU.

Swiss companies have two options:

Prepare now and gain a competitive edge
Wait until compliance becomes an urgent (and costly) problem

Allyship helps businesses navigate accessibility compliance with expertise, audits, and strategic planning. Let's make accessibility an opportunity—not an obstacle.

Get started with your accessibility compliance journey today