Overview of the different labeling and marking requirements, including any restrictive advertising or labeling practices and where to get more information.
Last Published: 8/1/2019

In the UK, origin, weight and dimension, chemical composition and appropriate hazard warnings are required for consumer protection purposes on any product offered for retail sale. If the product cannot be labeled or marked, the data may be included on any packaging, accompanying printed material, or product literature. European and British clothing and shoe sizes are differently marked, and special provision may have to be made for apparel retail labeling. Dual labeling is strongly supported by the UK, which uses the practice as a cost-saving measure in its exports to North America.

Labeling and Marking
Manufacturers should be mindful that, in addition to the EU’s mandatory and voluntary schemes, national voluntary labeling schemes might still apply. These schemes may be highly appreciated by consumers, and thus, become unavoidable for marketing purposes.

Manufacturers are advised to take note that all labels require metric units although dual labeling using Imperial measurements is also acceptable. The use of language on labels has been the subject of a Commission Communication, which encourages multilingual information, while preserving the right of member states to require the use of the language of the country of consumption.
An EU Directive lays down rules on nominal quantities for pre-packed products. The directive removes potential obstacles to the competitiveness and facilitates access to markets in different EU countries. The directive also liberalizes pack sizes and promotes free circulation of products in the EU single market.

The Eco-label
The EU eco-label is a voluntary label which U.S. exporters can display on products that meet high standards of environmental awareness. The eco-label is intended to be a marketing tool to encourage consumers to purchase environmentally-friendly products. The criteria for displaying the eco-label are strict, covering the entire lifespan of the product from its manufacture, use, and disposal. These criteria are reviewed every three to five years to take into account advances in manufacturing procedures. There are currently 13 different product groups, and more than 17,000 licenses have been awarded.

Applications to display the eco-label should be directed to the competent body of the member state in which the product is sold. The application fee will be somewhere between £290 and £1555 depending on the tests required to verify if the product is eligible, and an annual fee for the use of the logo (typically between £445 to £2250), with a 30% reduction for companies registered under the EU Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) or 15% if certified under the international standard ISO 14001. Discounts are available for small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs).
 

Prepared by our U.S. Embassies abroad. With its network of 108 offices across the United States and in more than 75 countries, the U.S. Commercial Service of the U.S. Department of Commerce utilizes its global presence and international marketing expertise to help U.S. companies sell their products and services worldwide. Locate the U.S. Commercial Service trade specialist in the U.S. nearest you by visiting http://export.gov/usoffices.