What's Happening?
As the holiday shopping season approaches, retailers are being urged to address significant digital accessibility issues that could impact sales and customer loyalty. According to the 2025 Digital Accessibility Index by AudioEye, retail websites have been found to average over 350 accessibility issues per page, the highest among industries analyzed. These issues include missing product descriptions, broken checkout forms, and promotional content that is unreadable for customers with low vision. The National Retail Federation notes that the holiday season can account for nearly 20% of annual sales, making it crucial for retailers to ensure their websites are accessible to all customers, including those with disabilities. The report highlights that nearly 70% of ADA-related digital accessibility lawsuits this year have targeted e-commerce businesses, emphasizing the legal risks of non-compliance.
Why It's Important?
Addressing digital accessibility is not only a legal obligation but also a significant business opportunity. People with disabilities and their households control an estimated $18 trillion in global disposable income. By improving accessibility, retailers can tap into this market, reduce legal risks, and enhance customer loyalty. Accessibility improvements can lead to more completed purchases, fewer abandoned carts, and stronger brand loyalty. Additionally, accessible design can improve search engine optimization (SEO) and help brands appear in AI-driven search results, further expanding their reach. Retailers that prioritize accessibility can gain a competitive advantage, capturing incremental revenue during the busiest shopping period of the year.
What's Next?
Retailers are encouraged to adopt a hybrid approach to accessibility, combining automation with expert testing to address issues at scale and catch nuanced problems. This approach can help retailers quickly improve site accessibility before the holiday rush. By investing in accessibility now, retailers can prepare for future shopping trends, including the rise of AI-powered search engines. Companies that lead in accessibility are likely to outperform their peers, with higher revenue and profit margins. As the holiday season is a critical time for brand choices, addressing accessibility can strengthen long-term customer relationships and reduce the risk of legal challenges.
Beyond the Headlines
The push for digital accessibility reflects broader societal shifts towards inclusivity and equal access. As technology continues to evolve, ensuring that digital platforms are accessible to all users becomes increasingly important. This movement not only benefits individuals with disabilities but also enhances the overall user experience for all customers. By prioritizing accessibility, retailers can demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility and inclusivity, aligning with consumer values and expectations.
