The ODR platform has been switched off since July 20, 2025

According to the official Regulation 2024/3228, the European Commission finally shut down the online dispute resolution platform (ODR platform) on July 20, 2025. This results in specific obligations for all online retailers and service providers. We show you what measures you need to take now to stay on the safe side legally.

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John Tsangaris
March 20, 2025
August 21, 2025

Why did the shutdown happen?

The ODR platform was introduced in 2016 by the ODR Regulation (EU 524/2013) to provide consumers and companies with a means of resolving disputes out of court. The reasons for the shutdown are clear:

Minimal use: Only around 200 cases per year were successfully processed via the platform across the EU

Direct solutions: Most disputes are resolved directly between retailers and customers

Cost-benefit ratio: The operating costs are disproportionate to the benefits

No new complaints have been submitted since March 20, 2025, and the dispute resolution platform has been completely closed since July 20, 2025.

Necessary measures for companies

The deactivation of the dispute resolution platform has a direct impact on your legal texts:

Until July 19, 2025:

Retain the reference to the ODR platform.

Since July 20, 2025:

Remove all references to the ODR platform:

Imprint

GTC

E-mail signatures

Website footer

Marketplace profiles (Amazon, eBay etc.)

The missing notice no longer constitutes an infringement. On the other hand, a notice that continues to exist can be cautioned as a misleading commercial act.

Special caution with cease-and-desist declarations

Have you issued a cease-and-desist declaration regarding the ODR platform in the past? Then you must formally terminate it due to the legal changes. A cease-and-desist declaration is a legally binding obligation towards a warning letter issuer. Otherwise, you still risk a contractual penalty despite the legal obligation no longer applying, as your contractual obligation continues to apply.

Concrete procedure

Check your online presence for references to the OS platform

Plan the timely removal by July 20, 2025

Remove existing notices immediately"The European Commission provides a platform for online dispute resolution (ODR): https://ec.europa.eu/consumers/odr. You can find our email address in the legal notice above."

Observe existing cease-and-desist declarations and consult a lawyer if necessary

Note: The information obligations under the ADR Directive (Alternative Dispute Resolution Directive) continue to apply. These obligations include information on whether you are willing or obliged to participate in alternative dispute resolution procedures.

Legal basis

The shutdown of the ODR platform is based on EU Regulation 2024/3228, which was adopted on December 19, 2024. This regulation repeals the original legal basis for the ODR platform, Regulation (EU) 524/2013, as of July 20, 2025. This legal change also removes the obligation for companies to provide information.

Conclusion

The shutdown of the ODR platform removes a bureaucratic hurdle, but still requires active action from all online retailers and service providers.

Particularly important: Since July 20, 2025, references to the ODR platform may no longer be included.

Companies that have not yet adapted their legal texts should do so urgently in order to avoid warnings.

Are you unsure whether you are affected by the regulation or do you need help with implementation? Please feel free to contact us!

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