Accessible website: How the Müller bakery won new customers

The internet is constantly evolving, and with it, the demands for accessible design also increase. Especially in Germany, the topic has become even more relevant due to the Barrier-Free Access Strengthening Act (BFSG). But what does this mean specifically for small businesses?

An impressive story shows how the Müller bakery, a traditional family business, made its website accessible. It met the new legal requirements, complied with regulations and gained new customers at the same time.

The Müller bakery had been a staple of the local community for many years. It always delighted its customers with fresh baked goods and excellent service. However, the website was not always up to date. When the Barrier-Free Access Strengthening Act (BFSG) was passed, the question arose of how the business could adjust its online presence.

“We had never thought about how important an accessible website could be,” says owner Max Müller. “But when we heard about the new legal requirements, we knew we had to act.”

The biggest challenge was to modify the existing technical structure of the website to make it accessible to everyone. Accessibility in the digital world not only means that people with visual or hearing impairments can access information. It also affects the use of keyboard commands, the readability of texts, and the operability of interactive elements.

Max Müller decided to collaborate with an experienced online marketing agency that specializes in accessible websites. "We knew we needed help to make our website legally compliant and more user-friendly," Müller explains.

The agency took on the task and conducted a thorough analysis of the existing website. An important step was the implementation of tools like screen reader compatibility and contrast enhancements for people with visual impairments. Additionally, it was ensured that all content was accessible via keyboard commands. The website navigation was optimized to make it more intuitive and user-friendly.

"The process was technically challenging," recalls the project manager of the agency. "However, it was very rewarding to see how each adjustment made the website more accessible and usable for a broader target audience."

After the update, the Müller bakery was not only prepared for the new legal requirements but also able to make its offerings accessible to a larger target audience. Particularly noteworthy was the response from people with disabilities, who could now easily use the website and place online orders.

"We have received more orders from people with limited mobility, who now found it easier to order our products. Even older customers, who have difficulties with smartphones and computers, suddenly find it much easier to access our website," explains Max Müller.

The new accessible website not only helped the Müller bakery to meet legal requirements, but also enabled it to serve a previously unreached market. The bakery saw a significant increase in online orders and positive customer reviews.

The story of Bäckerei Müller shows how important it is for companies to optimize the accessibility of their website. The technical challenges may seem great at first, but the benefits - both in terms of legal compliance and expanding the customer base - are unmistakable.

For companies that want to make their website accessible, a full-service agency like Media Beats GmbH offers valuable support. We help you design your online presence in a way that not only meets legal requirements but also increases your reach and attracts new customers.

Take action now and make your website accessible – for an inclusive future. Contact us today to learn more about our accessible web design solutions.