UK considers Digital Product Records amid growing EU requirements
The UK is exploring the possible introduction of Digital Product Records (DPRs) as part of efforts to improve product traceability, digitalise compliance, and support sustainability objectives.
The Department for Business and Trade is currently seeking views on whether the UK should introduce its own DPR framework and how such a system could work. No mandatory UK requirements are currently in place.
Digital Product Records
Digital Product Records could provide manufacturers, importers, distributors, consumers, and regulators with digital access to information covering a product’s technical, compliance, sustainability, and lifecycle data. The approach is broadly comparable to the EU’s Digital Product Passport (DPP), introduced under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation.
The UK review comes as the EU prepares to introduce DPP requirements for a growing number of product categories. Mandatory requirements for batteries are scheduled to begin in February 2027, while textiles, apparel, toys, construction products, and other sectors are also expected to be affected by current and future EU rules. Relevant EU DPP requirements will also apply in Northern Ireland under the Windsor Framework.
Increase the importance of digital product data
For businesses operating across the UK and EU, the developments could increase the importance of digital product data, supply-chain traceability, and compliance management. Companies may need to collect and maintain more detailed information on areas such as materials, environmental performance, repairability, recyclability, and regulatory compliance.
While the UK has not yet decided whether to introduce a DPR system, businesses selling into the EU or Northern Ireland may already need to prepare for upcoming DPP obligations. Companies in sectors such as textiles and apparel are particularly advised to strengthen product data and traceability processes ahead of further regulatory developments.