As the fashion industry faces a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape, Source Fashion, Europe’s leading fashion sourcing show, is stepping forward with a vital resource to support brands, retailers, and producers on their journey to sustainability compliance. Ahead of their next edition, 13-15 January at Olympia London, Source Fashion will officially launch its Mini Guide to Textiles Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in the EU and UK, a practical, accessible tool designed to help businesses understand and prepare for the sweeping EPR requirements coming into force under the revised Waste Framework Directive. With the clock ticking toward implementation in 2026, this guide offers essential clarity on responsibilities, timelines, and best practices for companies committed to meeting both legal obligations and consumer expectations in a circular future.
Extended Producer Responsibility, or EPR, places the onus on textile producers, brands, and importers to take responsibility for the full lifecycle of their products, from design and production through to end-of-life management. As part of the EU’s Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles and upcoming revisions to the EU Waste Framework Directive, the new regulations will require producers to finance and organise systems for the collection, sorting, reuse, and recycling of textiles across member states. Similar policies are also under consideration in the UK.
The new guide from Source Fashion offers a concise overview of these fast-approaching changes, including:
- Who and what EPR applies to
- Geographical scope across EU and UK markets
- Key requirements and cost implications
- Intersections with existing frameworks, including the Eco design for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR)
- Implementation timelines, including a visual roadmap to compliance by 2025
Drawing on learnings from international markets where EPR schemes are already established, including France, the Netherlands, Hungary, Latvia, Australia, and Chile, the guide also highlights case studies and best practices. Additionally, it references critical industry initiatives, such as WRAP’s Accelerating EPR Knowledge Project and the EPR Sandbox, underscoring the importance of transparency and consumer communication in the transition to circular systems.
Despite progress, significant challenges remain. These include the lack of harmonisation across regions, uncertainty around infrastructure investment for textile waste processing, and questions about the role of global waste management hubs. The guide tackles these concerns and offers a practical checklist of what producers, retailers, and brands need to start doing now, from conducting product assessments to appointing legal entities or representatives in each market where products are sold.
“EPR isn’t just another policy acronym, it’s a fundamental shift in how the fashion ecosystem must operate,” said Suzanne Ellingham, Event Director at Source Fashion. “With this guide, we aim to make the transition clearer and more achievable, helping businesses not only comply with new legal requirements but lead in the global shift to a circular fashion economy.”
As an evolving area of regulation, further details and updates are expected in the coming months. Source Fashion will continue to support the industry through this journey, offering ongoing guidance, insights, and resources across its events and platforms. The Mini Guide to Textiles EPR in the EU and UK will be available for download and consultation at our website.
To gain deeper insight into the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of fashion, and to connect directly with approved global manufacturers pioneering sustainable and compliant production, attendees are invited to join Source Fashion from January 13–15, 2026, at Olympia London. As the gateway to responsible sourcing, the show offers unparalleled access to expert-led content, vetted suppliers, and the latest industry innovations driving positive change across the fashion supply chain.
