Small Businesses Can’t Ignore Website Accessibility in 2025
If you thought website accessibility was just a “nice-to-have,” think again. In 2025, even the biggest names in digital media are learning the hard way that ignoring accessibility in web design can come with some serious consequences.
Kim Kardashian’s SKIMS faced a class-action lawsuit in the states for failing to provide alt text, accessible keyboard navigation, and descriptive links.
Jeffree Star Cosmetics was sued by a blind user in New York for a site that wasn’t screen-reader friendly.
And it’s not just the big players facing the consequences. One Shopify-based micro-influencer was taken to court when a blind customer couldn’t complete checkout via keyboard alone. Their story went viral on Reddit, and it’s a stark reminder that accessibility in website design isn’t optional.
This trend towards websites that everyone can use isn’t going away, and for good reason.
More users are demanding accessible online experiences—and businesses of all sizes are being held accountable when they don’t deliver. This means, whether you’re a global brand or a one-woman creative powerhouse, your website has to work for everyone.
What is Accessibility in website design?
Accessibility simply means making sure your website can be used and enjoyed by the widest possible audience. This includes people with visual, hearing, motor, or cognitive impairments.
Accessibility is about ensuring your website isn’t just pretty but actually works functionally for everyone. You’re probably reading this thinking it’s just common sense, but it’s amazing how many websites still fall short of the mark when it comes to inclusive experiences.
I’ve shared some practical tips for improving the accessibility of your website further down this article.
Why Accessibility Matters for Small Businesses
It’s tempting to think: “Well, I’m only small, it’s not like anyone’s going to sue me.” But those viral lawsuits prove that any business can end up in trouble over accessibility. And beyond the legal risk, accessibility makes business sense.
When your website is accessible, you:
Instantly expand your audience (hello, more potential customers & clients).
Build credibility as a professional, trustworthy brand.
Future-proof your business against both tech shifts and legal headaches.
Show your values by proving inclusivity isn’t just a buzzword, it’s baked into your brand.
Also, let’s look beyond the legal ramifications for a second and remember that accessibility laws exist for a reason. Behind every website visit, button click and sale is a human being, and it matters that your website is usable to the widest range of human beings possible.
Bottom line: Accessibility isn’t just compliance, it’s credibility.
5 Ways to Make Your Website More Accessible
1. Colour Palette Contrast
Those soft beige-on-beige palettes might look chic, but they’re impossible to read for many users. Make sure there’s enough contrast between text and background so everyone can read with ease.
2. Image Alt Text
Every image should have alt text—short descriptions that screen readers can read aloud. It’s simple, effective, and one of the first things checked in accessibility audits (plus it’s great for SEO).
3. Mobile Responsiveness
Over 60% of web traffic is mobile. If your site isn’t responsive, you’re not just excluding people with accessibility needs—you’re excluding most of your audience.
4. Legible Typography
Tiny, curly fonts might look fun, but if people can’t read them easily, they’ll bounce. Stick to clean, legible fonts and keep a consistent hierarchy for headings and body text.
5. Accessible Checkout Options
If you sell online, your checkout process should be navigable with a keyboard alone, not just a mouse. This small detail makes a massive difference for users with motor impairments—and it could save you from a lawsuit.
Accessibility isn’t about ticking a compliance box. it’s about building a brand that cares about it’s people.
Accessibility is proof that your brand is inclusive, thoughtful, and ready to welcome clients from every walk of life.
If your DIY website is falling way short of the inclusive mark or if you’ve been putting off a refresh that actually reflects your values, this is your sign.
My Rebrand Rodeo service gives you a bold new brand and a fully functional, accessible Squarespace website in just one week.
No overwhelm, no jargon, just a site you can be proud of.
👉 Ready to build a brand and website that works hard for you and your audience?
