The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) will soon apply to all businesses involved in placing certain commodities and products on the EU market. This includes many materials central to the outdoor living industry, with timber being the most significant.
From 30 December 2025, large and medium-sized companies must comply, while small and micro companies have until 30 June 2026.
What does this mean for the outdoor living industry?
- Timber-based products such as outdoor furniture, pergolas, and garden structures will be directly impacted.
- Other commodities like coffee, cocoa, soy, palm oil, and cattle-derived goods also fall under the regulation, but timber is the most relevant for our sector.
- Products placed on the EU market after the deadlines must be deforestation-free, legally produced, and fully traceable back to their source.
- Stock already in warehouses before the deadlines is not automatically exempt — compliance depends on when products are first placed on the market.
- Businesses will need robust due diligence systems covering geolocation data, risk assessments, and due diligence statements (DDS).
Steps the industry should take now
- Audit stock to identify compliance gaps.
- Work with suppliers to secure missing documentation and update contracts.
- Develop compliance systems to manage and store required data for at least 5 years.
- Stay informed about both EUDR and the UK’s forthcoming Forest Risk Commodity Regulation (UKFRC), which may impose additional requirements.
Why this matters for outdoor living
The outdoor living industry relies heavily on timber, making EUDR compliance a critical issue for manufacturers, importers, and retailers alike. Preparing now will help businesses avoid disruption, maintain market access, and demonstrate alignment with sustainability expectations from regulators, retailers, and consumers.
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