Are You Ready for the Biggest Compliance Shift in Years?

The General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) introduces stricter safety and compliance rules for businesses selling non-food consumer products in the EU. Since coming into effect on December 13, 2024, it has changed the way UK manufacturers, retailers, and direct-to-consumer (D2C) brands operate when selling to the EU or Northern Ireland (NI). Even if your business doesn’t trade directly with the EU, you could still be affected, as Northern Ireland follows EU regulations under the Windsor Framework.

Who Needs to Pay Attention?

If you make or sell consumer goods, these changes will probably impact you. GPSR applies to:

  • Manufacturers of electronics, homeware, and personal care products.
  • Independent artisans and online sellers (Amazon, Etsy, etc.) of jewellery and handcrafted goods.
  • Sports equipment makers – from bicycles to protective gear.
  • Toys, cosmetics, and medical device producers – even those previously covered by sector-specific regulations.
  • Book publishers – yes, even they must now follow labelling and traceability requirements.

Even if you only sell in Northern Ireland, you still need to comply, making GPSR a major regulation shift for UK businesses.

What’s Changing?

Under GPSR, businesses must:

  •       Appoint an EU-Based Representative – UK manufacturers must name a responsible contact in the EU, with their details clearly shown on the product or packaging.
  •       Ensure Labelling & Traceability – Stricter guidelines require safety warnings, batch numbers, and manufacturer details for greater accountability.
  •       Conduct Risk Assessment & Documentation – Businesses must assess product safety, keep documentation current, and meet regulatory requirements before selling.

 

The Challenges for UK Businesses

For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), these changes bring extra costs and logistical challenges. Larger companies may already have compliance teams, but SMEs will need to find an EU-based Responsible Person and update packaging and labelling accordingly. This is a significant shift for independent manufacturers and online sellers.

How to Stay Compliant

Ignoring GPSR isn’t an option—businesses must act now to stay compliant. Seeking expert support can make the process easier.

Euverify provides GPSR compliance services, from labelling reviews to acting as an EU-authorised representative, ensuring smooth access to the EU and NI markets.

Why This Matters

Regulations are tightening, but staying informed and proactive will keep UK businesses ahead. Is your business ready for the new GPSR rules?