EU AR Authorised Representative – Why Your Business Needs One

Authorised Representative: What They Do and Why Your Business Needs One

If you manufacture or sell products outside the EU and want access to European markets, appointing an EU AR authorised representative is often a legal requirement. Businesses outside the UK also require a UK Responsible Person to ensure compliance and safe product placement on the market.

This article explains what an EU AR authorised representative does, who needs one, the consequences of not appointing one, and how Annel ensures your products remain fully compliant in the EU and UK.

What Is an Authorised Representative?

An Authorised Representative (AR) is a professional compliance entity located in the EU or UK acting on behalf of manufacturers or sellers based outside these regions.

  • Official communication contact for EU and UK authorities
  • Management of compliance documentation
  • Oversight of product safety requirements
  • Cooperation during inspections and market surveillance
  • Ensuring compliance with EU and UK product regulations

By working with Annel, you appoint a reliable partner with deep regulatory expertise.

Who Needs to Appoint an Authorised Representative?

1. Non-EU / Non-UK Manufacturers:

If you manufacture outside Europe or the UK, you must appoint an AR before selling products in these markets.

2. Private-Label Brands & Resellers:

If you sell unbranded or own-brand products, you may legally be considered the manufacturer. More info: technical file requirements

3. Online Sellers & E-commerce Businesses:

Platforms like Amazon, Etsy or eBay require a responsible compliance contact. See: Amazon Product Compliance Services

4. Importers Outside the EU/UK:

Importing products without a local legal entity requires appointing an EU AR authorised representative.

Why You Need an EU AR Authorised Representative

1. It Is a Legal Requirement:

EU Regulation 2019/1020 requires a local economic operator for many imported products. View regulation

2. Authorities Require a Local Contact:

Authorities expect a responsible person within the EU/UK to communicate efficiently. UK publication

3. Ensures Compliance With CE, UKCA & GPSR Requirements:

This includes testing, safety documentation and technical files. CE & UKCA Certification Support

4. Protects Your Business From Penalties:

Helps avoid customs blocks, removals from platforms and legal fines.

5. Enables Legal Access to EU & UK Markets:

An EU AR authorised representative is essential for placing products on these markets.

What Annel Does as Your Authorised Representative

Maintains and Stores Technical Documentation:

Full document management including: technical documentation

  • Technical files
  • Declarations of Conformity
  • Test reports
  • Risk assessments
  • Labelling and safety materials

Acts as Your Official Contact:

We communicate directly with EU and UK authorities, customs and regulators.

Ensures Correct Product Labelling:

We verify AR details appear correctly on packaging and documents.

Monitors Safety and Supports Corrective Actions:

Assistance with recalls, CAPA actions and GPSR compliance. GPSR guidance

Supports Inspections and Market Surveillance:

We respond promptly to documentation requests.

Which Products Need an Authorised Representative?

Products Requiring CE or UKCA:

  • Electrical beauty devices
  • Personal care electronics
  • Toys and electronic toys
  • Portable label printers

Products Not Requiring CE/UKCA but Still Requiring an AR:

  • Sex toys
  • Non-electronic toys
EU AR authorised representative – Annel Compliance

Why Choose Annel?

  • Full EU & UK coverage
  • Specialised expertise in key product categories
  • Fast and reliable communication
  • Professional compliance document management
  • Long-term regulatory support

Annel’s AR Services Include

  • EU Authorised Representative
  • UK Responsible Person
  • CE & UKCA support
  • GPSR guidance
  • Technical documentation management
  • Safety and label review
  • Recall and incident handling
  • Market surveillance support

Need an EU AR Authorised Representative?

Contact Annel for expert guidance and complete compliance support: