A visually impaired woman has filed a class action lawsuit against a major clothing retailer, accusing the company of failing to make its website accessible to blind and visually impaired individuals. Lisa Anderson filed the complaint in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois on January 30, 2026, targeting French Connection Group, Inc.
According to the lawsuit, Anderson is legally blind and relies on screen-reading software to access digital content. She claims that French Connection’s website is not compatible with such technology, effectively denying her and others like her equal access to the goods and services offered online. The complaint highlights that approximately 8.1 million people in the U.S. are visually impaired, with around 260,000 residing in Illinois alone. Anderson alleges that French Connection’s failure to provide an accessible website violates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which mandates equal access for individuals with disabilities.
The complaint details numerous barriers encountered by visually impaired users on French Connection’s website. These include ambiguous link texts, inaccessible drop-down menus, and a lack of alternative text for images—essential features for screen-reader compatibility. As a result, Anderson argues that she was unable to complete a purchase independently when attempting to buy a dress from the site. “The Website’s inaccessible design denies blind and visually-impaired customers full participation in the growing Internet economy,” states the lawsuit.
Anderson seeks a permanent injunction requiring French Connection to modify its website policies and practices to ensure accessibility for blind and visually-impaired consumers. Additionally, she requests compensatory damages for herself and other class members who have faced discrimination due to these barriers. The lawsuit emphasizes that making websites accessible is neither technologically challenging nor financially burdensome, citing well-established guidelines like WCAG 2.2 as feasible solutions.
Represented by Alison Chan of Equal Access Law Group, PLLC, Anderson aims to hold French Connection accountable under both federal and state laws for their alleged discriminatory practices. The case underscores ongoing challenges faced by disabled individuals in accessing digital platforms—a critical aspect of modern commerce and daily life.
This legal battle will be overseen by judges at the Northern District of Illinois under Case No.: 1:26-cv-1113.
Source: 126cv01113_Lisa_Anderson_v_French_Connection_Complaint_Northern_District_of_Illinois.pdf