GS1 eyes shift to 2D barcodes by 2027

In an age where consumers demand instant access to transparent product information, the supply chain industry is undergoing a significant transformation.

The 2023 Global Shopper Study conducted by Zebra Technologies unveiled that 77% of retail associates acknowledge the increasing knowledge of today’s shoppers, highlighting a well-informed and discerning consumer base.

Amidst these shifting consumer expectations, businesses are adapting their products and supply chains to provide enhanced transparency, resilience, and sustainability.

The study also indicates that around 7% of companies are integrating or planning to integrate business intelligence and analytics into their supply chain management strategies.

In response to these industry dynamics, GS1 Philippines, a prominent organization specializing in local barcode standards, has announced the initiation of the adoption of 2D barcodes in the Philippines.

This move aims to boost operational efficiency within the supply chain sector and facilitate improved product engagement between businesses and consumers through digital labeling.

The 2D barcode, commonly recognized as a “QR code,” leverages web technologies and the existing barcode system to store comprehensive product details in a single scan.

Through QR codes, brand owners and retailers can seamlessly interact with consumers by providing detailed information on their physical products.

By scanning the QR code using a smartphone, buyers can instantly access information such as ingredients, allergens, recipes, rewards, promotions, manufacturing origins, sustainable sourcing practices, recycling guidance, re-ordering options, and other relevant details.

Furthermore, the QR code empowers retailers and supermarkets to ensure product safety, freshness, and reduce food wastage. It also enables regulators to verify a product’s sustainability attributes. The transition to 2D barcodes not only enhances operational efficiency in the supply chain industry but also facilitates improved inventory management, transparency, traceability, sustainability initiatives, and simplifies recall and return processes.

Roberto “Bobby” Claudio, President of GS1 Philippines, emphasized the importance of adapting to technological advancements to empower the supply chain industry further.

He highlighted the introduction of QR code technology as a game-changer, offering endless possibilities for brands and retailers to enhance operational efficiency and elevate customer engagement.

This strategic move by GS1 Philippines coincides with the global celebration of GS1 Global’s 50th anniversary of the barcode’s invention, marking a legacy of innovation in business solutions through web technologies and GS1 Standards.

GS1 Philippines aims to prepare industries for the transition to 2D barcodes by 2027, ensuring that all retail POS scanners worldwide can read and process 2D barcodes powered by GS1.

The organization targets to expand its reach from serving over 5,000 retailers to encompassing 30,000 businesses nationwide by the end of 2024.