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Published on 22/05/2025
Digital accessibility in 2025: New challenges and solutions for online merchants
The web accessibility challenge for e-commerce
Bringing websites up to accessibility standards is a strategic investment for online merchants. All new digital services created after 28 June 2025 will need to natively integrate RGAA criteria, while existing platforms will have until 2030 to comply.
This shift requires adapting site features, design, code and user interfaces: keyboard navigation, responsive content, video subtitles and screen reader compatibility. Assistive technologies must be considered from the earliest stages of service design.
For online merchants, anticipating these changes is a smart move. An accessible website not only improves the browsing experience for all users but also opens up access to a wider customer base, including people with disabilities in France.
RGAA | The accessibility benchmark for 2025
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The RGAA includes 1063 evaluation criteria across 133 themes to ensure full accessibility.
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Online merchants must publish an accessibility statement outlining their level of compliance with RGAA standards.
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Accessibility testing must cover various assistive technologies, including screen readers and speech synthesis tools.
- The DGCCRF will specifically monitor RGAA enforcement in the e-commerce sector.
European Directive 2025 | What's changing
The 2025 European Directive marks a major shift for websites. Accessibility requirements will now apply to the entire customer journey, from the product catalogue to the payment process. Online merchants will need to ensure their content is understandable for all users.
A key change is that accessibility features must now be natively integrated into online merchant websites. Compatibility with assistive technologies therefore becomes necessary, particularly for order forms and authentication systems.
Micro-enterprises with annual revenue under €2 million are exempt. For all others, a transition period until 2030 is granted only for services created before June 2025.
Sanctions for non-compliance
Failure to comply with accessibility standards may result in a fine of up to €7,500, rising to €15,000 in the event of repeat offences.
Businesses also face reputational risks related to digital inclusion. A poor track record on accessibility can lead to loss of market share, particularly among people with disabilities in France.
Beyond financial penalties, non-compliance may lead to the mandatory implementation of a corrective action plan under the supervision of the relevant authorities. Online merchants must also ensure they allocate sufficient resources to accessibility training for their teams.
The four key principles of digital accessibility
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Multimedia content must offer text alternatives compatible with assistive technologies.
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Text size should be at least 12 px.
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Navigation must be fully functional via keyboard, with structured menus and logical shortcuts.
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Text display should adapt to user preferences, such as zooming up to 200%.
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Purchase forms must include clear labels and understandable error messages.
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Colour contrast between text and background must meet a minimum ratio of 4.5:1.
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HTML5 semantic structure allows screen readers to accurately interpret page architecture.
- Content must remain accessible even when JavaScript is disabled in the browser.
Training and certification | Key steps
Implementing a digital accessibility awareness programme is a strategic investment for online merchant businesses. Specialised training providers offer tailored learning paths for different roles, including developers, designers, web editors and managers.
Team certification is becoming a key priority to ensure high-quality online services. Certifying programmes offer recognised expertise in the RGAA, with specific modules focused on usability and interface robustness.
Best practices from organisations such as the Fédération des Aveugles and the Valentin Haüy Association can further enrich project development and promote equal access to digital services.
An opportunity to seize now
Digital accessibility is no longer optional for online merchants—it is a strategic necessity. Complying with the new 2025 regulatory requirements presents a real opportunity for digital transformation. Beyond legal obligations, it is a chance to rethink the user experience to make it more inclusive and effective.
Online merchants who anticipate these changes today will gain a competitive edge. By integrating RGAA criteria and training their teams, they are building a long-term digital strategy that combines regulatory compliance with commercial performance. At Floa, we remain firmly committed to digital accessibility. In partnership with AccessiWay, a recognised industry expert, we continue to enhance our platforms in line with RGAA standards to ensure an optimal user experience for all our visitors.
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