A reseller who simply buys products already placed on the French market does not have the same responsibilities as a shop that imports, packages goods under its own brand or commissions its own products. Once a business becomes the party placing products on the market, it must carefully examine its packaging obligations and the relevant EPR schemes.
EPR starts with identifying who places the product on the market
ADEME explains that a business placing products on the market under an extended producer responsibility scheme must identify the relevant scheme and, as appropriate, join an approved producer responsibility organisation or establish an approved individual system. Even if the product itself is not covered by a specific scheme, its household packaging may bring the company within the scope of packaging EPR.
Triman and Info-tri
The Triman symbol indicates that a product or its packaging must be sorted or taken to a collection point. It is accompanied by Info-tri instructions explaining how to sort the waste. These markings apply to products covered by the relevant rules and must be used in accordance with the applicable scheme.
Commercial packaging: changes postponed to 2027
ADEME indicates that the extension of EPR to all commercial and industrial packaging, initially planned for 2026, is due to take effect on 1 January 2027. Businesses concerned should therefore prepare to join a scheme and collect the required data.
Building a brand also brings environmental obligations
Before printing thousands of labels, check the mandatory markings and the product's regulatory status. Eco-contributions and compliance costs must be included when calculating the margin on own-brand products.
This topic complements our guide to creating your own brand.
Official sources
ADEME — EPR producer obligations · ADEME — Triman and Info-tri · ADEME — Commercial and industrial packaging