What is European Technical Information Model (ETIM)

ETIM is a standard way of organizing technical product information. Instead of each company describing products in its own way, ETIM provides a shared structure. Each product type is given a specific set of features and standardized values for those features. This makes it easier for manufacturers, distributors, and retailers to exchange product data, even if they’re using different systems or speaking different languages.

A brief history

ETIM was first developed by the Dutch electrotechnical sector in the late 1990s to solve a growing problem: electrical wholesalers and suppliers were all using different formats and descriptions to describe their products. That made it hard to share accurate product information and sell products. ETIM introduced a shared structure for classifying products by type (like “LED light bulb”) and defining their features (like wattage, socket type, or dimmability). It quickly gained traction in Europe and now has international reach, with many industries and supply chains relying on it to manage technical product data. Even its name reflects how much ETIMs scope has expanded: originally called the ElectroTechnical Information Model, then the European Technical Information Model, it is now most commonly known just as ETIM.

Good to know

ETIM organizes product data into classes, with each class defining a set of standardized features (like size, power, or material) that apply to that product type. These features have defined values or formats, so when two companies exchange data using ETIM, everything matches up. For example, if a supplier and a retailer both use ETIM, they’ll refer to the same class name and use the same attributes (with the same names and units) for every product. The ETIM model is regularly updated and managed by the international ETIM organization, which works with local industry groups around the world.

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Related resources

What is ETIM?

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of products does ETIM cover?
ETIM started with electrical products, but it’s expanded to include products like lighting, HVAC, plumbing, tools, and building materials. If it’s a technical product with spec-based buying decisions, ETIM probably covers it.
How widely used is ETIM?
ETIM is the go-to standard across much of Europe, especially in sectors like electrical, HVAC, and construction. It's supported by national ETIM organizations in over 20 countries. Outside of Europe, adoption varies. Some regions use industry-specific standards (like UNSPSC or eCl@ss), and some companies create their own data models. That said, ETIM is gaining traction globally.
What happens if I don’t use ETIM?
It depends on who you’re working with. Many distributors and retailers (especially in Europe) require ETIM-formatted product data from suppliers. If you don’t provide it, you may face delays in listing your products, errors in product displays, or not be able to sell to or work with some distributors and retailers at all.
How do I find the ETIM rules? Do I have to be a member?
You don’t need to be a member to use ETIM. The model is open and free to download from etim-international.com. That said, many companies join their local ETIM organization (like ETIM Germany or ETIM UK) to stay involved in updates, vote on model changes, or get support with implementation.
Do the rules ever change?
Yes, sometimes ETIM rules change. The model is reviewed and updated regularly to keep up with new technologies and product types. A new major version is typically released every few years. It’s a good idea to check which version your trading partners expect, and use a PIM system that supports versioning if you work across different regions or channels.