A visually-impaired individual has filed a class action lawsuit against an online music merchandise retailer, alleging that the company’s website is inaccessible to blind users. The complaint was lodged by Andre Battle in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois on November 7, 2025, targeting Merchbar, Inc.
Andre Battle, who represents himself and others similarly affected, accuses Merchbar of failing to make its website accessible to individuals with visual impairments. According to the lawsuit, this failure violates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which mandates equal access to public accommodations. Battle asserts that Merchbar’s website lacks essential features like alternative text for images and proper labeling for interactive elements, making it impossible for blind users to navigate or complete transactions independently.
The plaintiff claims that despite available technology and established guidelines such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2, Merchbar has not taken necessary steps to ensure its website is accessible. These guidelines are widely recognized and followed by many businesses and government agencies to ensure digital accessibility. Battle attempted to purchase a music CD from Merchbar.com but was thwarted by numerous accessibility barriers, including inadequate heading structures and ambiguous link texts.
Battle seeks a permanent injunction requiring Merchbar to update its website policies and practices to comply with ADA standards. Additionally, he demands compensatory damages for unlawful discrimination faced by himself and other class members due to these accessibility issues. The lawsuit emphasizes that blind individuals have a greater need than sighted people for online shopping due to mobility challenges, making web accessibility even more crucial.
Representing Andre Battle is attorney Uri Horowitz from Flushing, New York. The case has been assigned Case No.: 1:25-cv-13667 in front of judges at the Northern District of Illinois court.
Source: 125cv13667_Andre_Battle_v_Merchbar_Complaint_Northern_District_of_Illinois.pdf
