The free movement of product in the single market has to respect the rules ,particularly those related to consumer information regarding product composion.footwear is also rule by a directive on a labelling.Mandatory indications-graphical or verbal-also have to be communicated at the point of sale,on leaflets and in catalogues.
The European directive 94/11/EC of 23 march 1994 requires that all shoes sold in EU countries bear a standardised label describing the composition of each part of the shoe.Protective footwear is not covered by the directive and is subject to other regulations.The manufacturer or the person resonposible for the first bringing on the product to market can choose between two systems:pictograms or verbal indicatiors .The pictogram system is the easiest since member stated cannot impede the free movement of labelled products ,whereas they can refuse verbal indicators in a language other than theirs.the information must be on the product one shoe is enough ,usually the right one.
The labelling can be attached by any means that ensures that the label is legible,visible,accessible and stays in place when first handled .the nature of the main material of each part has to be indicated .’Major’ material shall mean that it accounts for at least 80% of the surface area of the upper ,The linning and sock or 80% of the volume of the outsole.If their isnot any major material and the 80% level is not reached ,the nature of the two major components has to be indicated.
