Rules regarding MRP on footwear

In India, the requirement for displaying the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) on footwear is governed by the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011. Here is the clarification regarding your query:

Is Printing MRP Mandatory on Footwear?

Yes, under the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011, commodities intended for retail sale must bear the required declarations, including the MRP.

• For Footwear Sold in Boxes: If the footwear is sold in a box, it is sufficient to have the required declarations (including MRP, name and address of the manufacturer/packer, size, etc.) clearly printed or affixed on the footwear box. It is not mandatory to print these details on the footwear itself if it is sold exclusively in that box.

• For Footwear Sold Without Boxes: If the footwear is sold without a box, the declarations must be made directly on the footwear using a tag, sticker, or other appropriate means so that the information is clearly visible to the consumer.

Key Rules & Compliance

• No Overcharging: Retailers cannot legally charge more than the MRP printed on the packaging. Recent consumer court rulings (such as the case against Bata) have reinforced that if a company wishes to charge an increased price due to a tax revision or other reasons, they are legally obligated to display the revised MRP through a sticker or appropriate marking on the package.

• Public Awareness: While there was a previous requirement to publish price revisions in newspapers, current guidelines have simplified this. Manufacturers and importers are now required to circulate revised price lists to wholesalers and retailers to ensure transparency.

• General Rule: Any "pre-packaged commodity" meant for retail sale must bear a definite, plain, and conspicuous declaration of the retail sale price.

Summary:

Printing the MRP is mandatory for retail footwear in India. If the footwear is sold in a box, the details can be on the box; if sold without a box, the details must be on the footwear itself (via tag or sticker). Retailers cannot charge above this displayed price, and any price revisions must be clearly marked on the packaging.