Right to Repair:
The future of
consumer rights

Is your business ready for one of the most impactful pieces of European legislation in recent years?

The Right to Repair, part of the European Green Deal, is set to change the way retail companies operate, and ignoring it isn’t an option.

By 2026, this new law will give consumers the power to repair their products instead of replacing them, shifting the focus from disposable goods to durable, sustainable solutions. Retailers that adapt early will not only comply and avoid fines, but also increase customer satisfaction, positioning themselves as leaders in this new era of consumer rights.

What is the Right to Repair?

The Right to Repair is a revolutionary piece of legislation that requires companies to make it easier for consumers to fix their products.

From providing spare parts to sharing technical documentation, retail businesses must ensure that their goods are repairable, even after the warranty expires. This applies to a wide range of items, from electronics to home goods, and is a crucial step toward reducing waste.

For businesses, this means a fundamental shift in how you design, sell, and support your products. Instead of relying on repeat sales due to product obsolescence, retailers must now focus on repairability and longevity.

Why should your business care?

• Stay compliant, avoid penalties:
  With the Right to Repair Europe coming into effect in 2026, retail businesses need to ensure they are compliant. Non-compliance could result in penalties, damaged reputation, and lost customer trust. But companies that get ahead of the legislation will build stronger customer relationships and brand loyalty.
  
• Seize new revenue opportunities:
  The Right to Repair isn’t just about compliance—it’s an opportunity. By offering repair services, spare parts, and even refurbishment options, retailers can create new revenue streams. Imagine your customers coming back not to replace a product but to repair it—at your store or via your service. Companies that embrace this can transform customer service into a profit center.
  
  Retailers like IKEA are already leading the charge by offering spare parts to extend the life of their furniture. Early adopters of the Right to Repair will build long-term customer loyalty by proving they care about both sustainability and their customers’ wallets.
  
• Boost your brand’s sustainability credentials
  According to the European Commission, extending the life of products by just 1 year could reduce EU carbon emissions by an estimated 4 million tons annually.
  
  Aligning your business with sustainability goals has never been more critical, as eco-conscious consumers are demanding more from the brands they buy from. By actively supporting repairability, your company can lead the charge in circular economy practices, reducing waste and enhancing your brand’s image.
  
• Enhance customer service and loyalty
  Incorporating repairability into your business model enhances the customer experience. No longer will customers feel forced into purchasing new products when something breaks. Instead, offering repairs shows that your brand values longevity and is willing to go the extra mile for its customers.
  
  Imagine the difference it would make if your customer service team can confidently offer repairs—either in-house or through a trusted partner—rather than telling customers they need to buy something new. Not only will this build trust, but it also creates a deeper connection with your customers, who will appreciate that you’re saving them money and helping the environment.

How to prepare for the Right to Repair

So, how can your retail business get ready for the 2026 Right to Repair deadline?

Here’s what you can do:

• Redesign products with repairability in mind: Work closely with manufacturers to ensure your goods are easy to disassemble and repair. Make spare parts accessible and available for several years post-purchase.
• Build a repair network: Whether in-house or through partnerships, create a repair service that’s easy for customers to use. You could even set up an online platform where customers can find repair solutions nearby.
• Train customer service teams: Equip your teams with the knowledge and tools to handle repair inquiries efficiently. This might involve partnerships with repair specialists or creating an internal team dedicated to repairs.
• Optimize your logistics infrastructure: Handling repairs isn’t just about fixing a product—it requires a robust logistics infrastructure that can process repair requests, even for online orders. This means utilizing both your physical stores and online channels to create a seamless customer experience. Having efficient return logistics in place is crucial. It will reduce the burden on your customer service teams, optimize freight, and minimize handling time for repairs. By streamlining your logistics, you ensure that repairs are handled quickly and effectively, keeping customers satisfied.
• Embrace refurbishment: Offer refurbished products as a lower-cost, eco-friendly option. This can also help your business handle returns and unsellable goods more effectively.