GPSR - Why detailed product information is now essential for manufacturers and online retailers

Data provision
GPSR | Product information | PIM | Specifications | Automated data maintenance | E-commerce

Online retail is booming, but as it grows, so do the legal requirements. New EU regulations, in particular the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) and similar provisions, require manufacturers and retailers to present their products more transparently and in greater detail than ever before. The aim: consumer protection through clear and comprehensive information.
What may initially seem like a bureaucratic challenge also offers opportunities. Transparency strengthens consumer confidence and ensures sustainable customer relationships. But what exactly does the legislation require and how can companies implement these requirements efficiently?

The new information requirements at a glance

The new regulations oblige retailers and manufacturers to ensure maximum transparency, both in physical stores and - particularly relevant - in online retail. The most important points:

Transparency at the manufacturer and supplier
Each product must be clearly traceable to the manufacturer or supplier. In concrete terms, this means

• Indication of the name, brand, address and an electronic contact address of the manufacturer.
• This information must be easily accessible to every consumer and displayed in the product details.

Especially for retailers who offer products from different manufacturers, this can mean additional effort - but at the same time it increases the credibility of the offer.

Detailed product identification
Products must be presented in such a way that they can be clearly identified. This includes:

• Product images: High-quality, accurate images of the product, showing all important details.

• Product specifications: The nature and function of the product must be clearly described, e.g. technical features or possible uses.
• Product identifiers: Serial numbers, model numbers or other specific markings to identify the product.

These requirements should help to avoid misunderstandings among buyers and promote the comparability of products.

Warnings and safety information
A central point of the new provisions is also the provision of warnings and safety-related information.

• Obligation to provide
  All safety-relevant information and warnings must be provided if this is required by the GPSR or other EU regulations.
• Linguistic adaptation
  The information must be formulated in a language that is easily understandable for consumers in the respective country.

Particularly challenging: If a product is sold in several EU Member States, the warnings and safety information must be available in all the official languages concerned. For companies with an international focus, this is an enormous administrative burden - especially if no automated processes have been implemented.

The challenge for manufacturers and retailers

For many companies, these requirements mean a considerable amount of additional work, as the product data must be extensively revised and expanded. In particular, linguistic adaptation and the provision of safety-relevant information in several countries place complex demands on organization and data maintenance.

Another sticking point: retailers are not only responsible for the presentation of their own products, but must also ensure that the manufacturer's information is correct and complete. In the worst-case scenario, missing or inadequate information could have legal consequences.

How PIM systems can make implementation easier

In order to meet the requirements efficiently, companies need powerful tools such as a Product Information Management System (PIM software). A modern PIM offers numerous advantages, particularly in this context:

1. centralized data management

With a PIM tool, all product information can be recorded, maintained and managed in one central location ("single source of truth"). This ensures:

• Standardized and consistent data that can be easily updated.
• Avoidance of errors caused by manual data entry.

2. automated translations

Linguistic adaptation for different countries is one of the biggest challenges. PIM systems can automate translations using integrated tools or external interfaces. This allows warnings, safety information and product descriptions to be translated efficiently into the required languages.

3. easy integration into stores and platforms

A PIM can be connected directly to online stores, marketplaces and other sales channels via APIs (interfaces). This means that

• Changes or additions to product data are automatically updated on all platforms.
• Retailers can ensure that their information always complies with legal requirements.

4. support with legal requirements

A PIM system helps companies to fully comply with legal requirements. Warnings, manufacturer information and identification features can be systematically stored and adapted for the respective markets.

More than just an obligation: the opportunity for differentiation

Although the new regulations are mandatory, they also offer the opportunity to stand out from the competition. Companies that provide comprehensive and easily accessible information gain the trust of their customers and can position their brand as trustworthy and customer-oriented.

Conclusion

The new EU regulations make the provision of detailed product information mandatory. Manufacturers and retailers who rely on a modern PIM system can not only meet these requirements efficiently, but also create a competitive advantage. After all, well-informed customers are satisfied customers - and satisfied customers like to come back.