New CLP legislation puts packaging design under pressure

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TL;DR

Starting in 2026, new CLP regulations require minimum font sizes, standardized labels, and tighter compliance. For brands, this means higher costs and greater risk. Packaging Manager automates updates and prevents errors.

New Legislation Puts Packaging Under Pressure

Since late 2024, the packaging world has been on edge. The European Commission introduced Regulation 2024/2865, an update to CLP (Classification, Labelling and Packaging). From July 1, 2026, chemical substances and mixtures will need to follow stricter labeling requirements. The changes aim to make labels easier to read and increase consumer safety.

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The update introduces:

• Mandatory minimum font sizes for legibility
• Standardized formatting and layouts
• More transparency and protection for consumers
  
  

Source: Hibiscus PLC – Update to labelling changes proposed under CLP regulations

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For many brands, this is a major shift. Packaging must remain fully compliant while still looking appealing. That creates more complexity and pressure for marketing and design teams.

The Hidden Price of Non-Compliance

“The impact of these regulations is often underestimated,” says Thomas Brouns, Managing Director at KAN. Even small details can trigger non-compliance. The consequences: costly reprints, distribution delays, and legal risks. This puts design teams in a tough spot. They have to balance creative freedom with the technical precision required by law. Companies that fail to adapt risk falling behind.

Technology as a Lifeline

Automation is the clear solution. With over 15 years of experience in branding and packaging automation, the agency has developed workflows centered on Smart Templates. “When regulations change, labels in Packaging Manager are automatically regenerated,” the team explains. “That means every package instantly complies with the new rules without manual rework. It saves time and drastically reduces the risk of errors.”

Compliance becomes part of the design process instead of an expensive struggle.

Looking Ahead: Compliant and Innovative

The CLP changes show that packaging design can no longer be separated from automation and smart processes. Technology gives brands the certainty that their packaging is legally compliant, while still allowing them to stand out visually.

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By streamlining workflows, design teams gain the freedom to focus on innovation instead of spending hours on corrections. Companies that invest in automation today will be ahead of the curve in a market that is becoming more heavily regulated every year.

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Book a free demo to make sure your packaging is fully compliant.