How traceability and sustainability data are becoming essential for market access
We’ve always believed that transparency is not a trend—it’s a responsibility. But soon, it will also be a regulatory requirement.
As part of the European Union’s strategy for a more circular, sustainable economy, the Digital Product Passport (DPP) is set to become mandatory across several industries, starting with textiles, fashion, and travel gear. For brands selling in the EU, this means rethinking not just how you design and market your products, but how you track and share product data.
What is the Digital Product Passport (DPP)?
The Digital Product Passport is a tool under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), introduced by the European Commission. It’s a standardized, digital record that stores key information about a product—from its materials and environmental footprint to instructions for repair and recycling.
Instead of limited care labels or vague sustainability claims, consumers and regulators will be able to scan a QR code or RFID chip and instantly access reliable, comparable data.
The DPP will apply to:
- Textiles & apparel
- Footwear
- Luggage & travel accessories
- Electronics and batteries (first movers)
If your products fall into these categories, the DPP is coming your way.
Why does the DPP matter for your brand?
Transparency and traceability are no longer just nice-to-have—they’re becoming a precondition for market access in the EU.
Brands will be expected to:
- Know their supply chain down to raw materials
- Track product-level environmental data (e.g., lifecycle impact, recyclability)
- Provide accessible, digital documentation to consumers and auditors
For sourcing managers and product developers, this will require tight collaboration with manufacturing partners. At PACTICS, we’re already preparing by aligning our traceability systems and documentation with anticipated requirements.
When will the Digital Product Passport be required?
Here’s the current rollout timeline:
- July 2024: The Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation entered into force
- Late 2024: Establishment of the Ecodesign Forum to support implementation
- Q2 2025: First Working Plan from the EU Commission, identifying priority product categories and requirements
- 2026 onwards: Phased implementation of DPPs in high-impact sectors, starting with textiles and related goods. Larger enterprises are expected to comply first, with SMEs granted extended timelines to facilitate adaptation and compliance. Specific dates and requirements will be detailed in forthcoming delegated acts.
What should you do to prepare?
Whether you’re a DTC brand or supply chain manager, here’s how to get ahead:
- Map your supply chain – Work with suppliers who can provide transparency on raw materials and production steps.
- Start collecting sustainability data – Water use, energy consumption, material origins, end-of-life options.
- Discuss with your manufacturer – Ask how they’re preparing for DPP implementation and whether they can support your traceability goals.
- Invest in data infrastructure – Product information needs to be accurate, structured, and accessible.
How PACTICS is preparing
As a full-service manufacturing partner for travel gear, eyewear accessories, and sportswear, we’ve long built our operations around accountability, quality, and impact. We’re actively:
- Mapping our own upstream supply chains
- Standardizing material-level data for clients
- Exploring tech integration for digital passports
We’re not perfect—but we are committed to honest progress. If you’re a brand looking to navigate these changes, we’re ready to support you with tailor-made solutions and co-development that align with your transparency and compliance goals.
Final Thoughts
The Digital Product Passport isn’t just another regulation—it’s a shift toward more ethical, intelligent supply chains. For brands who want to lead with integrity, now’s the time to prepare.
Want to explore more on this topic?
Check out our related posts:
- The Future of Transparency: The Consequences of CSRD and ESRS on Your Business – PACTICS
- Collaborating to Mitigate Social & Environmental Impacts: the Way to Comply with the CSDDD – PACTICS
- Establishing a Sustainable Partnership With Your Supplier – An Introduction to Pactics’ Brand-Supplier Framework – PACTICS
Sources:
- https://data.europa.eu/en/news-events/news/eus-digital-product-passport-advancing-transparency-and-sustainability
- https://commission.europa.eu/energy-climate-change-environment/standards-tools-and-labels/products-labelling-rules-and-requirements/ecodesign-sustainable-products-regulation_en
- https://www.retraced.com/blogs/knowledge-hub/digital-product-passport
- https://blog.worldfavor.com/eu-digital-product-passport-dpp-what-it-means-for-the-textile-industry
