Barcode on product packaging is now getting a successor

The classic barcode has been an integral part of product packaging for almost 50 years. But now it has been agreed almost worldwide on a successor that will be significantly more powerful.

The current barcodes are basically one-dimensional – the different line thicknesses represent the number code underneath. In the future, 2D barcodes should be visible on the packaging. The US magazine reports that these essentially correspond to what users have already come to know as QR codes in many other areas of application axios.

The new system will offer the advantage that significantly more information can be encoded. This should not only raise inventory management for retailers to a whole new level – for example because the batch number is also encoded and recalls are easier to implement. The consumer benefits too. Because you should be able to scan the code yourself when shopping via the associated online services and receive various additional information.
This is the way

Much more information

In this way, it may then be possible to trace exactly where certain foods were grown or in which factory a piece of clothing was sewn. But data on the sustainability of production, ingredients or simply washing instructions or a cooking recipe could also be offered in this way. So there are hardly any limits to the imagination.

The new barcodes have now been approved by the responsible standardization organization GS1. Implementation should now begin relatively quickly. Two codes will appear on many packages for years to come. It is currently planned that the new 2D code will be recognized at scanner checkouts worldwide from 2027. The sportswear manufacturer Puma will be the first company to rely on the new codes and, in cooperation with GS1, generate important experience for global implementation.

See also:

Barcode, Upc, Barcode
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