Preamble — The FAB-DIS 3.0 Guide
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Chapter 00 · What is FAB-DIS?

Preamble.

Before diving into the FAB-DIS 3.0 tabs, the documentation or file validation, it is essential to fully understand what FAB-DIS is, why it exists and the benefits of using it.

📖 Reading ~ 4 min Model 3.0 🌱 Beginner

🎯 Why was FAB-DIS created?

The FAB-DIS model was created in 2015. It was designed by and for the manufacturers and distributors (hence the name FAB-DIS) of the building and industrial supply sector. Its goal? To put an end to the many different exchange formats between manufacturers and distributors.

✓ Shared standard format

A common language for all product exchanges across the industry.

✓ Single template

Accepted by more than 1,600 players in the sector.

✓ Regained simplicity

A simple, powerful answer to the complexity of product data exchange.

✓ A united industry

Designed by manufacturers and distributors, to serve both worlds.

🧭 What exactly does FAB-DIS do?

FAB-DIS is not a database, nor software. It is a data exchange vehicle.

It lets you transmit, in a structured way:

  • Product descriptions — labels, technical and commercial descriptions, ranges, brands.
  • Logistics and packaging — EAN, weight, dimensions, palletisation.
  • Visuals, brochures, videos — media referenced by public URL.
  • Regulatory compliance data — REP, AGEC, REACH, RoHS, CE…
  • Additional information — links between commercial references, technical characteristics, etc.
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Key takeaway

FAB-DIS standardises the container of product data, without dictating the content: you stay in control of your information, but it becomes universally readable.

📅 The evolution of FAB-DIS up to version 3.0

The model evolves regularly to keep pace with industry needs and regulatory changes:

2015

Creation of FAB-DIS SAS and publication of the initial model.

2018

Launch of version 2.3 with the Easy-Check tool.

2023

Launch of version 3.0 and the MOVE TO tool.

2024

Discontinuation of the 2.3 documentation — 3.0 becomes the single reference.

🏗️ What FAB-DIS concretely changes for you

The benefits are symmetrical: what makes the manufacturer’s life easier also smooths the distributor’s.

Manufacturer side

A single file for all your distributors. Less rework, fewer errors. Faster time to market.

Distributor side

Easier integration into tools. Consistent, homogeneous data. Simplified validation process.

“A common format means less friction and more time for what really matters: bringing your products to life on the market.”

🛠️ FAB-DIS services

To help you produce your FAB-DIS 3.0 file, FAB-DIS provides several services:

  • The FAB-DIS KIT, which includes all the FAB-DIS 3.0 documentation: manual, template, attributes, tables, CNR.
  • The Easy-Check tool, to check your FAB-DIS files and fix errors before distribution.
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Access the services

All services are accessible through the FAB OFFER.

SUBSCRIBE to the FAB OFFER →

⚖️ The CNR file

The FAB-DIS file is not intended to convey your discounts, net prices or specific promotions. For that, there is a complementary file: the CNR file (Negotiated and Discounted Terms).

FAB-DIS = public product data CNR = private commercial terms

Need to go further?

The FAB-DIS KIT contains all the FAB-DIS documentation (template, manual, tables…) so you can get hands-on right away. It is also included in the FAB OFFER.