We focus on the recently proposed Omnibus simplification package, and how it may reshape the way companies approach sustainability reporting and supply chain traceability.
We speak to Staffan about:
- How the Omnibus package affects key legislative frameworks CSRD (Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive) and CSDDD (Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive).
- Why relaxations in reporting requirements may not diminish the EU’s overall sustainability ambition.
- The critical role of data and traceability in achieving sustainability goals in the fashion industry.
- How GS1 aims to inspire and support companies as they prepare for the coming wave of digital and sustainable transformation.
Hosted by Konrad Olsson, Editor-in-chief and founder of Scandinavian MIND.
Key takeaways
The Omnibus Package: A pause, not a pullback
The recent EU Omnibus Package is not a rollback of sustainability legislation, but a pragmatic pause to ease pressure on businesses. “I don’t see a general lack of ambition from the EU… It’s just a delay in time in order to not pose a too big regulatory burden on the companies,” Staffan explains. While reporting timelines may be relaxed, the long-term goals of circularity and transparency remain intact.
Corporate vs. Product-level reporting
With the Omnibus relaxing some corporate-level reporting requirements, Staffan encourages companies to use this time to double down on product-level traceability. “Maybe it’s a perfect time to refocus… get your traceability systems in place,” he says, adding, “Circularity doesn’t happen without data.”
Digitalization is still inevitable
Despite legislative delays, digital transformation across the value chain remains essential. “The digitalization will need to happen regardless of Omnibus or not,” Staffan states. He highlights the EU’s ongoing emphasis on the “twin transitions” — digital and sustainable — as the foundation for future competitiveness.
Start now — even without all the details
Staffan urges brands not to wait for every legal detail to fall into place before taking action. “It’s not too early to start assessing and preparing your internal data environment,” he says. Many companies still struggle with scattered, unstructured data, which can slow down implementation later.
