Navigating Packaging and Textile EPR Regulations in the Textile Industry with Trimco Group
American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA)
Advocacy that fits.
The fashion industry is no stranger to rapid change, but complying with the growing number of national and international sustainability regulations might feel particularly daunting. For textile brands navigating requirements for textiles, footwear, and packaging, the stakes are high, and being proactive is key.
Understanding the AGEC Law and Zalando’s Compliance Mandates
Two critical frameworks are shaping sustainability compliance for the textile industry. First, France’s AGEC Law demands extended producer responsibility (EPR), requiring brands to take accountability for the entire lifecycle of their products—from design to end-of-life recycling. On the other hand, e-tailers’ compliance mandates such as Zalando, a private initiative, focus on higher sustainability transparency, requiring brands to report detailed environmental and social impact metrics. For US fashion brands working in or exporting to Europe, aligning with these frameworks means adopting comprehensive data collection systems and streamlining processes to manage compliance efficiently.
National Progress Despite EU Delays
While the EU’s vote on harmonized textile EPR regulations has been delayed to October 2025—with implementation potentially postponed until 2028—several EU member states are charging ahead. Countries like France, the Netherlands, Hungary, and Italy are instituting their own EPR systems. Italy, for example, plans to implement textile EPR requirements starting in 2026. For US-based brands operating in Europe, this patchwork of national systems adds regulatory complexity, underscoring the need for a robust compliance strategy.
Tips for Proactive Compliance
Here are actionable steps to streamline compliance and stay ahead of evolving regulations:
Centralize Data Management: Develop efficient systems to collect and track product lifecycle data, from raw material sourcing to disposal. Digital platforms such as Trimco Group’s ProductDNA can simplify this, reducing time and effort.
Map Requirements: Create a detailed matrix of country-specific EPR laws where you operate. This ensures you consistently meet each jurisdiction’s obligations.
Set Up Reporting Frameworks: Prepare for thorough sustainability reporting, incorporating key metrics like waste recovery rates and recycling outcomes.
Collaborate with Experts: Partner with organizations dedicated to helping brands manage EPR compliance, such as Trimco Group, to leverage their expertise and tools.
Why Early Action Still Matters
Despite the EU’s delay in establishing a unified EPR directive, the urgency to act remains. Brands that invest in compliance frameworks now will face fewer disruptions when mandates become binding. The US market stands to gain valuable insights from this proactive approach, as EPR discussions begin to emerge stateside, signaling the likelihood of parallel regulations in the near future.
Work with Trimco Group
With team present in locations such as Turkey, India, China, Europe and a solidified presence in the US with the latest acquisition of Nexgen Packaging LLC, Trimco Group blends expertise in sustainability solutions with cutting-edge technology to help brands tackle even the most complex compliance challenges. Whether you need an overview of European regulations or tools like their ProductDNA platform to efficiently manage your reporting, they’ve got you covered.
Get in touch today to explore they can support your compliance and sustainability goals. Join and connect with Camilla Mjelde, Kelly West and Laura Rossi at the upcoming AAFA Traceability & Sustainability Conference, July 9-10th.
Article prepared by Traceability & Sustainability Conference Sponsor, Trimco Group (June 16, 2025). Learn more at aafaglobal.org/trace25
Compliance and Sustainability Director
1moLooking forward to being there !