The EU, GDPR and Umbraco CMS

For manufacturers and distributors, GDPR is not just about avoiding fines. It’s about maintaining trust with customers and channel partners who expect transparency in how their data is collected and used. Content management systems (CMS) like Umbraco play a critical role in meeting these expectations.

Key GDPR Requirements

The GDPR strengthens data privacy rights across the EU, and its reach extends globally to any business that processes EU citizen data. A few core requirements include:

• Mandatory breach notifications within 72 hours of discovery
• The right for individuals to know how their data is being used, where it is stored, and for what purpose
• The right to be forgotten, allowing individuals to request erasure of personal data and cessation of further use
• Applicability to all organizations worldwide that handle EU citizen data

What Counts as Personal Data?

Personal data extends beyond names and emails. It includes photos, IP addresses, bank details, medical information, and even social media posts. For B2B companies, this also applies to channel partner records, buyer account information, and logged activity from eCommerce sites.

How Umbraco CMS Helps

Umbraco CMS version 7.9 and Forms 7.0 introduced features to help businesses address GDPR compliance. While no CMS alone guarantees compliance, Umbraco provides tools that make it easier to manage personal data responsibly:

• Improved tools for managing consent and opt-in forms
• Features to support data deletion or export requests
• Greater visibility into who has access to personal data within the CMS

Steps Toward GDPR Compliance

Meeting GDPR requirements involves a combination of technology, process, and governance. Manufacturers and distributors should focus on:

• Auditing data flows to identify where personal data enters, how it is stored, and who has access
• Updating security practices with stronger passwords, restricted admin access, and SSL for all data in transit
• Upgrading CMS platforms if older versions lack GDPR-friendly capabilities
• Creating clear and user-friendly opt-in forms
• Training staff to understand and follow new compliance practices
• Running regular audits and documenting compliance efforts
• Mapping third-party data flows, including channel partners and suppliers

Why This Matters for B2B eCommerce

For B2B manufacturers and distributors, GDPR is more than a legal requirement. Compliance demonstrates accountability and builds trust in markets where long-term relationships drive success. Customers, partners, and regulators all expect transparency, and companies that deliver it gain an edge in credibility and loyalty.

Final Thoughts

Layer One is an Umbraco Certified Partner, helping manufacturers and distributors align their CMS strategy with compliance requirements. From compliance audits to CMS upgrades, we help ensure that your digital foundation supports both regulatory needs and customer trust.

Need to strengthen GDPR compliance while optimizing your CMS? Let’s talk.