BFSG in Force: Accessibility Becomes Mandatory for Websites and Shops

The German Accessibility Strengthening Act (BFSG) requires many companies to make their websites and online shops accessible. What this means in practice, who is affected, and how to get started. (Not legal advice.)

What the BFSG regulates

The Accessibility Strengthening Act (Barrierefreiheitsstärkungsgesetz, BFSG) has been in force since 28 June 2025. It requires companies to offer certain products and services in an accessible form – explicitly including websites and apps used in electronic commerce. Put simply: anyone who sells to consumers online or initiates contracts online, for example via an online shop, a booking process, or appointment scheduling, must design these offerings so that people with disabilities can use them too.

Who is affected – and who is not

Primarily affected are providers of services in electronic commerce, in particular online shops and online bookings for consumers. Exemptions apply to microenterprises providing services (fewer than ten employees and an annual turnover of no more than two million euros). If in doubt, you should seek legal advice on whether and how your specific offering falls under the act – we help with the technical and design assessment.

What accessibility means in practice

• Perceivable: sufficient contrast, scalable text, and alternative text for images.
• Operable: full keyboard usability, clear focus management, and understandable forms with helpful error messages.
• Understandable: clear language, intuitive navigation, and a consistent page layout.
• Robust: clean code that works with assistive technologies such as screen readers.

How to get started

The pragmatic approach starts with an assessment: Where does your website stand today, which barriers weigh most heavily, and what can be fixed with reasonable effort? The result is a prioritized list of measures – from quick fixes such as contrast and alternative texts to structural changes. Accessibility pays off twice: it opens up additional target groups and, along the way, improves usability and search engine visibility for all visitors.

Note: This article provides a practice-oriented overview and does not replace legal advice for your individual case.

Would you like to know where your website stands? Request an initial assessment via our contact form.

Related: Accessibility under the BFSG with Reuther Media and design & structure.