Tyres Europe slams EU tire label reforms as overcomplicating, not simplifying

The European tire industry body Tyres Europe has criticized the European Commission’s proposed Energy Labelling Omnibus package, arguing that while some measures aim to streamline administrative processes, others risk adding unnecessary red tape for manufacturers. In a statement issued on 25 June, the association welcomed digitization efforts such as linking the European Product Registry for Energy Labelling (EPREL) with the Digital Product Passport registry and enabling automatic generation of label images in EPREL. However, it warned that proposals to expand delegated acts for potential rescaling of the label, introduce ‘nested labels,’ and broaden Product Information Sheet (PIS) requirements could create new regulatory hurdles without clear benefits for consumers. Tyres Europe emphasized that the core issue is not a lack of information but poor consumer engagement with existing tools. Citing a European Commission review, the association noted that only 39% of consumers recalled seeing the tire label when shopping in 2025, down from 50% in 2017, and just 5% were aware of or had consulted the EPREL database before purchasing tires. The industry called for a more focused approach to improve awareness and understanding of the current tire label, rather than layering on additional complexity. Secretary General Adam McCarthy stressed that simplification should prioritize making existing labels more accessible and effective, warning that new layers of bureaucracy risk driving up costs without changing purchasing behavior. Tyres Europe urged the Commission and EU co-legislators to adopt a coherent strategy that enhances consumer information, supports market incentives for higher-performing tires, and avoids introducing unclear technical requirements. The association expressed readiness to collaborate on a final framework that delivers practical simplification, better consumer information, and a competitive regulatory environment for European businesses.