Electronic Price Labels and accessibility in the context of the European Accessibility Act

There’s no denying that technology has been changing how we manage stores over the past few years, and Electronic Price Labels (ESL) are one of the breakthroughs. These innovative technologies, based on e-paper technology, enable instant updates of shelf prices, improving store operational efficiency and accessibility. They are of particular importance in the context of the upcoming European Accessibility Act (EAA), which will come into force in June 2025 and will force retailers to adapt their stores to the needs of all consumers, including people with various disabilities.

What is the European Accessibility Act?

The European Accessibility Act is a legal act that aims to unify the requirements for the accessibility of products and services throughout the European Union. This applies to accessibility for people with various types of disabilities, including, m.in, people with limited mobility, poor eyesight, or hearing problems. In the context of retail, this means adapting stores and other points of sale to the needs of all consumers—without exception, regardless of their disabilities.

The role of Electronic Price Labels in improving accessibility

One of the most essential elements supporting store adaptation to EAA requirements is the previously mentioned Electronic Price Labels (ESL). These digital shelf-ready labels allow for quick and efficient price management, eliminating the need to replace traditional paper tags manually. However, what is most important is that ESL not only saves time and money, but is also a great tool to improve store accessibility for people with disabilities.

What are the main benefits of ESL in the context of EAA? First of all, these will be aspects such as:

Benefits for people with limited vision

The first (and perhaps even the most important) advantage of ESLs is that they can be adapted to the needs of people with limited vision. Unlike traditional paper labels, electronic labels can be programmed to use larger fonts and contrasting colours, significantly improving readability. This, in turn, makes it easier for visually impaired people to access product information – an essential part of meeting EAA requirements.

Environmentally friendly technology

In addition to the issue of availability, ESLs also contribute to reducing operating costs and environmental protection. Traditional paper labels require constant updates, which means high material costs and staff time. ESLs, however, allow you to change the price immediately without printing new labels. This reduces paper consumption and generates savings.

Long-lasting energy efficiency

Electronic price labels are based on e-paper technology, which means that they only consume energy when the content changes, not all the time—making them very energy-efficient. They can operate on a single battery for up to several years, which further contributes to reducing operating costs and negative environmental impact. 

ESL implementation as a step towards meeting EAA requirements

With the European Accessibility Act coming into force (June 2025), which will apply to all new stores and stores undergoing refurbishment, retailers need to prepare for solutions to ensure their stores are accessible. Electronic price labels are one of the easiest ways to comply with EAA requirements, as they allow store spaces to be quickly adapted to people with different types of disabilities.

Thanks to their use, prices on the shelves can be displayed in various formats – from large fonts to contrasting colors, which makes them more readable. In addition, additional information tailored to the different needs of customers ensures full accessibility for people with vision or hearing problems. 

So is it worth opting for ESL in the context of EAA? The answer is yes! Their implementation may become essential for many retailers who want not only to comply with regulations, but also to gain a competitive advantage in the market.