Environmental Action Germany (DUH) has successfully taken action against misleading advertising by a well-known electronics producer. The electronics producer had stated that the battery in two smartphone models was "user-replaceable". In fact, however, replacement was only possible with special tools, technical know-how and up to 54 steps. The DUH saw this as a clear violation of the EU Ecodesign and Labelling Requirements, which have been in force since 20 June 2025 and stipulate that a battery is only considered "user-replaceable" if no special tools or expertise are required.
After being requested to do so by the DUH, the producer acknowledged the misleading statement and undertook to refrain from making such statements in future. The environmental organisation considers the case to be an important precedent for the enforcement of the new EU rules. It is now calling for increased market surveillance and controls to ensure that consumers are correctly informed and that more sustainable, repair-friendly products are promoted.
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Tag24 reports that the so-called "chief complaint inspector", previously known from German TV shows for dealing with parking offences, inspected several shops in the Zwickau area and filed complaints due to the refusal to take back deposits. He refers to the Packaging Act, according to which sellers with a sales area of at least 200 m² who sell beverages with a deposit are obliged to accept empty containers.
At branches, including a DIY store and a discount chain, he found that returns were refused – for example, on the grounds that the area was less than 200 m² or that only "small quantities" were accepted. He therefore called in the authorities. The shop of a well-known electrical retail chain can also be seen in the photos in the article.
Questions about the Packaging Act? The take-e-way consulting team is happy to assist you via +49/40/750687-0 or send us an email.
