AI-generated conceptual illustration, not an official organiser graphic.
The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and Germany’s implementing act, the VerpackDG, have applied since 12 August 2026, with specific application dates and transition rules for individual requirements. Yet many retailers are still unsure which obligations apply to them. To close that gap, the German textile, footwear and leather goods retail association BTE is hosting a free webinar on 10 November 2026 that walks through the requirements, timelines and deadlines.
The BTE PPWR webinar at a glance
The online session runs on 10 November 2026 from 10:00 to 12:00 (CET). The speaker is Annette Kahleyhs, Key Account Manager at Interzero Circular Solution Germany GmbH. She will give an overview of the PPWR and the VerpackDG and their impact along the supply chain, covering key requirements, the obligations of manufacturers, suppliers and retailers, and the risks of non-compliance.
Participation is free of charge. Registration is by email to Veranstaltungen@bte.de, after which participants receive a Microsoft Teams link. Check the BTE event announcement for the organiser’s current details.
The authorised representative obligation still applies
BTE’s main criticism concerns cross-border distance selling. Retailers shipping directly to end users in other EU member states need to check their registration and authorised representative obligations in those countries. The association considers the effort and cost unsustainable, especially for smaller retailers.
The European Parliament supports relief for EU-based micro and small enterprises. The commonly cited thresholds of fewer than 50 employees and annual turnover or a balance-sheet total not exceeding EUR 10 million do not create an exemption that businesses can already rely on; eligibility also requires a separate assessment. The Council has adopted its own negotiating position. The legislative process is not yet complete, so applicable obligations must still be observed.
What does this mean for manufacturers and retailers?
Brick-and-mortar retailers are affected too. Businesses sourcing goods directly from foreign manufacturers may themselves be the producer of the packaging for EPR purposes, for example shoe boxes or the packaging of shirts and blouses. The allocation depends on the supply chain and packaging type; transport, service and sales packaging need to be assessed accordingly. ZSVR guidance explains the roles.
For planning 2027, section 68(1) VerpackDG generally allows system participation arrangements established before 12 August 2026 to continue until no later than 31 December 2026, subject to differing contractual arrangements. This is not a general postponement of all producer obligations until 2027. Retailers should review their role, existing agreements and any necessary LUCID registration now.
ECOPV-EU supports manufacturers and retailers with registration, compliance scheme participation and authorised representation in Germany and other EU countries. This article is for information only and does not constitute legal advice.
Sources: BTE event announcement; supplemented by ZSVR, section 68 VerpackDG and the Council of the EU. Checked on 27 October 2026.
