What the EU accessibility act means for UK-based event companies

Introduction

Although the UK is no longer part of the European Union, the upcoming EU accessibility act, enforceable from 28 June 2025, is still highly relevant to UK-based event companies. Whether you organise international trade shows, supply event technology, or host virtual experiences for European audiences, this legislation may impact how you design and deliver your services.

In this post, we’ll explain what the EU accessibility act covers, who it affects, and what UK event businesses should be doing now to stay compliant and inclusive.

What is the EU accessibility act?

The European accessibility act is a directive designed to improve accessibility for people with disabilities across a wide range of products and services, both physical and digital. It applies to any business operating within the EU, regardless of where that business is headquartered.

The act covers:

• Websites and mobile apps
• E-commerce platforms
• Ticketing and booking systems
• Self-service kiosks
• Audio-visual media services
• Digital customer service and communication tools

How does this affect UK event companies?

Although UK law does not currently require compliance with the EU accessibility act, UK-based companies providing services to the EU or working with EU clients must comply. This includes:

• Organising events in EU countries
• Selling tickets to EU residents
• Delivering digital event platforms used by EU attendees
• Partnering with EU-based agencies or suppliers

Failure to comply may result in legal action, financial penalties, or being blocked from entering EU markets.

Are any businesses exempt?

Yes. Microenterprises are exempt from the EU accessibility act.

A microenterprise is defined as a business that:

• Employs fewer than 10 people, and
  
  
• Has an annual turnover or balance sheet total of less than €2 million
  
  

If your event business falls into this category, you are not legally required to comply with the accessibility act, though doing so is still highly recommended as a best practice for inclusion and reach.

However, businesses that grow beyond the microenterprise threshold will be expected to comply moving forward. Also, certain client contracts or public sector partnerships may still require accessibility compliance, regardless of your size.

Key implications for event businesses

1. Digital event platforms must be accessible

If your event website or platform is accessed by EU audiences, it must meet WCAG 2.1 Level AA accessibility standards. This includes:

• Clear navigation and consistent layout
• Compatibility with screen readers
• Full keyboard access
• Subtitles or captions for all video content
• Adequate colour contrast and resizable text

2. Ticketing and payment systems need to be inclusive

From browsing events to making payments, the entire booking process must be accessible. If you rely on third-party platforms, ensure they meet the standards, or you could still be held responsible.

3. On-site accessibility matters

For physical events, ensure that signage, registration areas, and wayfinding systems are accessible for people with mobility, visual or hearing impairments. This includes features like hearing loops, accessible toilets, ramps, and clear directional signage.

4. Marketing and communication must be compliant

All customer-facing materials, emails, websites, social media posts, booking forms, must be inclusive and accessible. For example, PDFs should be screen reader-friendly, and videos should include captions.

What UK event businesses should do now

1. Review your digital platforms
   Run an accessibility audit using tools like WAVE or axe DevTools, or invest in a professional review. Focus on your websites, registration tools, and virtual event environments.
2. Check your suppliers
   Ask your ticketing providers, CRM systems, and tech partners if they are EU accessibility act compliant. Don’t assume, get confirmation.
3. Train your team
   Make sure your designers, marketers, and developers are trained in basic accessibility best practices. Small changes can make a big difference.
4. Start now
   The act becomes enforceable from 28 June 2025. Building accessibility into your workflows means you’ll avoid stress later, and make your events more welcoming in the process.

Final thoughts

The EU accessibility act represents a significant move toward inclusivity in the events industry. For UK-based event companies working in or with the EU, it's both a legal obligation and a professional responsibility to ensure services are accessible to all.

If you’re a microenterprise, you may be exempt, but the direction of travel is clear: accessibility is becoming a non-negotiable part of doing business, especially in the events space.

By preparing now, you won’t just stay compliant, you’ll build better events for everyone.

Need support with accessibility?

We help event companies create accessible, user-friendly websites that comply with both UK and EU standards. Get in touch to find out how we can help.