When most brands think about what a China-side manufacturing partner does, they think about factories, samples, and shipping.

What they rarely think about is regulatory compliance.

But for the brands that work with Brisas Global, compliance is part of the service. Not because it was written into a contract. Because it is what happens when your partner is genuinely paying attention to everything that affects your business, not just the production side of it.

This is the story of how Brisas Global identified a significant regulatory requirement for one of their European shoe brand clients, managed the entire compliance process on the brand's behalf, and used it as an opportunity to improve the brand's packaging at the same time.

The Background

The European Union introduced the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, known as PPWR, under Regulation EU 2025/40. This regulation places legal responsibility on the entity putting products on the market in EU member states, defining them as the "producer" for the purposes of packaging compliance.

For shoe brands selling in Europe, this means the brand itself is legally required to register as a packaging producer, report packaging data including types, weights, and materials, and pay the associated Extended Producer Responsibility fees. This obligation became mandatory from August 12, 2026.

Most brands selling into European markets were not aware of this requirement, or were aware of it but had not yet taken steps to comply.

The Challenge

When the regulation came into effect, one of Brisas Global's long-standing European shoe brand clients was selling products across European markets. Under EU law, the brand was considered the producer and was therefore responsible for EPR registration and compliance.

The challenge was that the brand's team was not tracking EU packaging regulations as part of their day to day operations. They had not yet registered, had not prepared the required documentation, and were not aware of the specific steps they needed to take to become compliant.

Without someone proactively monitoring this on their behalf, the brand could have faced compliance issues, potential fines, and disruption to their ability to sell across European markets.

What Brisas Global Did

Brisas Global identified the regulatory requirement before it became a problem for the client and immediately took action.

Flagged the compliance requirement Brisas Global proactively communicated the PPWR regulation to the brand's team, explaining exactly what it meant for them as a producer selling across European markets, what their legal obligations were, and what the deadline for compliance was. The brand's team was informed of a regulatory requirement they had not yet identified themselves.

Prepared all technical documentation Brisas Global prepared comprehensive test reports covering all packaging components, tested against Regulation EU 2025/40 Article 5. The tests confirmed that the sum of lead, cadmium, mercury, and hexavalent chromium was below 100 mg per kg in every component tested. A full summary list was prepared and provided to the brand.

Drafted the Declaration of Conformity Since the packaging carries the brand's name, the Declaration of Conformity needed to be issued by the brand as the producer. Brisas Global drafted the DoC, including all required representative details, and provided it to the brand for review, stamping, and return. They also confirmed that mass production materials were identical to the tested samples.

Supported the EPR registration process Brisas Global coordinated with the brand's team to confirm the EPR registration number needed for the DoC filing, and offered to assist with any additional documentation required to complete the process.

Improved the packaging simultaneously While managing the compliance process, Brisas Global identified two areas where the brand's packaging could be improved from an environmental standpoint. They initiated work to replace the current non-recyclable film with an environmentally friendly alternative, and to replace the PP lamination on the inner box with a coating solution that removes the paper-plastic composite structure and improves recyclability. Both improvements were ongoing at the time of the compliance filing.

The Outcome

The brand was able to move toward full compliance with EU packaging regulations without having to manage the process themselves. All technical documentation was prepared, the Declaration of Conformity was drafted and ready for the brand's signature, and the EPR registration process was supported end to end.

At the same time, the brand's packaging was being improved to meet higher environmental standards, positioning them better for future regulatory requirements across European markets.

The brand's team did not need to become experts in EU packaging law. They had a partner on the ground who was already paying attention.

What This Case Study Illustrates

Working with Brisas Global is not just about getting shoes made and shipped. It is about having a partner who is actively looking out for your brand across every dimension of your operation, including the ones you are not thinking about.

Regulatory compliance, packaging improvements, documentation management, and proactive communication are all part of what Brisas Global provides to the brands they work with. Not as add-on services. As the natural result of a partner who is genuinely invested in the long-term success of your brand.

For shoe brands selling into European markets, the regulatory environment is becoming more complex, not less. Having someone in your corner who understands both the manufacturing side and the compliance implications of what you are selling is no longer a luxury. It is a necessity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is EPR registration for shoe brands?

EPR stands for Extended Producer Responsibility. Under EU packaging regulations, the brand putting products on the market in an EU member state is considered the producer and is legally required to register as a packaging producer, report packaging data, and pay associated fees. This applies to shoe brands selling in European markets including Germany, France, the Netherlands, and others.

What is the PPWR regulation?

PPWR stands for Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, introduced under Regulation EU 2025/40. It sets out requirements for packaging producers operating in EU member states, including registration, data reporting, and fee payment obligations. It became mandatory from August 12, 2026.

Does Brisas Global help with regulatory compliance?

Yes. Brisas Global monitors regulatory requirements that affect their clients' brands and proactively flags issues before they become problems. They prepare technical documentation, support Declaration of Conformity processes, and assist with the information needed for compliance filings.

What is a Declaration of Conformity for packaging?

A Declaration of Conformity is a document issued by the producer confirming that their packaging meets the requirements of the applicable regulation. It must include representative details and be signed and stamped by the brand as the producer. Brisas Global prepares this document on behalf of their clients.

Can Brisas Global help shoe brands selling in Europe stay compliant with EU regulations?

Yes. Brisas Global works with shoe brands across Europe and actively monitors regulatory changes that affect their clients. If you are selling into European markets and want a partner who stays on top of compliance on your behalf, get in touch at brisasglobal.com.

Work With a Partner Who Pays Attention

If you are building or scaling a shoe brand and want a China-side partner who looks after every part of your operation, not just the factory floor, we would love to hear from you.