The GPSR Regulation (2023/988/EU) introduces a number of changes that affect store owners, especially those selling online. The regulation comes into effect on December 13, 2024.
Store owners must prepare to implement new procedures related to product documentation, updating safety information and responding to possible risks associated with their products. The need to comply with GPSR regulations requires not only technical preparations (e.g., updating product descriptions in online stores), but also constant monitoring of the market and responding to new legal requirements. Here are the most important changes they need to take into account:
1. Obligation to adapt product information
Store owners must ensure that information on products offered for sale complies with the new safety requirements. These include:
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Accurate information about the manufacturer (name, address, contact information),
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Warnings and safety information (e.g., instruction manuals, safety data sheets),
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Information on hazardous substances, if the product contains them (e.g., pictograms, H and P phrases),
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Product photos and other information that may be required to ensure user safety.
2. Increased responsibility for product safety
Under the new regulations, stores (especially those online) will have to demonstrate that the products they offer comply with safety requirements. If a product is found to be unsafe, the store can be held liable, risking fines and a recall.
3. Information requirements for online stores
Online store owners must ensure that the description of each product contains all the necessary information in accordance with the new regulations. This includes:
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Providing detailed product information (e.g., catalog number, EAN),
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Publishing relevant warnings and risk information,
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Providing documents such as safety data sheets or user manuals.
4. Increased role for sales platforms
Selling platforms, such as Amazon and eBay, will be required to monitor product compliance with GPSR regulations, which could lead to greater accountability on the part of stores selling through these platforms as well. Platform operators may require sellers to provide additional documents, such as compliance declarations.
5. Responsibility to respond to hazards
In the event that a product is found to be unsafe, shopkeepers will be required to act quickly, including recalling the product from the market and informing relevant authorities of the hazard. They must also ensure that goods can be returned or replaced if the product threatens the health or safety of consumers.
6. Increased inspections and sanctions
Violations of GPSR regulations can lead to severe financial penalties. Store owners need to be aware that they face sanctions, including fines, warnings or even a ban on sales, if they sell products that do not meet safety requirements.
