Gaps in European Accessibility Act Compliance Across Organisations

Our latest analysis reveals that many organisations in Ireland remain underprepared for the European Accessibility Act (EAA), which comes into force on 28 June 2025. The EAA sets out a common set of accessibility requirements for key products and services, from banking to public transport to e-commerce. However, despite its wide-reaching implications, a significant proportion of businesses are falling behind in their compliance efforts.

According to the findings, 49% of organisations say they are not currently prepared to meet EAA requirements - a slight improvement from 60% in October of last year. This lack of readiness suggests that many may be underestimating the scale of the changes required, or are encountering internal roadblocks to implementation. Notably, 61% of respondents identified technical implementation as their biggest challenge, underlining the complexity of retrofitting or redesigning digital infrastructure to meet accessibility standards.

Also notable is the low level of perceived customer awareness. Just 32% of organisations believe their customers or clients are aware of the accessibility requirements under the EAA. This lack of external pressure may be contributing to the slow pace of internal action. As Dermot McGirr, Technology Partner, warns:

"Relying on low customer awareness is a dangerous position. Once the legislation is in force, the consequences of non-compliance - legal, financial and reputational – can be significant. We are working closely with clients to assess their compliance status and implement sustainable, long-term accessibility strategies in advance of the 28 June deadline."

On a more positive note, 54% of organisations have now conducted an accessibility audit, up from 38%.

The survey was conducted during our recent webinar on the EAA hosted by Dermot McGirr, Technology Partner, and attended by over 300 professionals. Missed the webinar? It is now available to watch:

CPD on Demand: The European Accessibility Act: The Final Countdown