The end of an era for the GS1 barcode

You may already know that Orderwise is a Lincolnshire-based business delivering innovation to a number of warehouses across the UK.
But did you know it was another Lincolnshire business that paved the way for barcoding in the UK? The first live GS1 barcode was scanned in 1979, very fittingly, on a box of tea bags!
In 1979, retailer Keymarkets, based in Spalding, made history when it introduced the GS1 barcode into the UK retail scene. This innovation followed a recommendation from the National Economic Development Office some 15 years earlier, setting the stage for decades of operational excellence in traceability. With a single scan, businesses could log and track products, giving them unprecedented visibility across the supply chain.
Since then, GS1 barcodes have become a familiar and indispensable tool for businesses across the country. They’ve allowed products to be monitored from production to point of sale, transforming how businesses manage stock, improve traceability, and meet consumer demand. GS1 UK has detailed this remarkable journey, showcasing how the technology has become a foundation for global trade.
But all eras must come to an end. After nearly 50 years, the GS1 barcode is set to be phased out. In 2027, these iconic symbols will begin making way for a new player in the world of product identification: the QR code.
Why are QR codes taking over?
It’s no secret that technology evolves to meet the growing needs of businesses and consumers. The GS1 barcode, though revolutionary in its time, can store only 41 characters of alphanumeric data—enough for basic identification but limited in today’s increasingly complex supply chains.
Enter the QR code. Capable of holding up to 3KB of data, QR codes represent a quantum leap in information storage. This additional capacity makes them indispensable in a world where traceability, compliance, and transparency are paramount. From detailed product descriptions to batch numbers, expiration dates, and even environmental impact data, QR codes can encode the kind of information modern businesses need to succeed.
This shift isn’t just about data capacity; it’s about flexibility. QR codes can store multiple types of information simultaneously, allowing businesses to adapt to changing regulations, customer expectations, and market demands. For industries like food, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing, where detailed tracking and compliance are critical, QR codes are a game-changer.
The warehouse perspective
Warehouses, the lifeblood of many industries, have always relied on barcoding for efficiency. Scanning devices, coupled with software solutions, have automated many tasks, from inventory management to shipping logistics. The move to QR codes enhances these capabilities by providing faster scans, more detailed information, and fewer errors in data handling.
With QR codes, warehouses can streamline operations even further. For example, a single scan could not only identify a product but also provide its location in the warehouse, its destination, and specific handling instructions. This level of detail reduces the margin for error and helps teams work more efficiently, especially in fast-paced environments.
How to prepare for the transition
For businesses relying on GS1 barcodes, the prospect of transitioning to QR codes might feel daunting. However, the process doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By taking proactive steps now, you can ensure a smooth shift when the time comes.
- Start with awareness
Simply understanding the upcoming change puts you ahead of the curve. Recognising how QR codes will impact your operations is the first step toward staying competitive.
- Review your technology
Not all scanning devices are compatible with QR codes, so it’s essential to audit your current equipment. Ensure that your scanners and software can handle QR codes and are capable of processing the additional data they carry.
- Plan for staff training
A transition of this scale involves more than just technology. Your teams need to understand how to use the new tools effectively. Invest in training to ensure everyone is confident and prepared when the change arrives.
- Work with experts
If you’re unsure where to start, consider partnering with a provider experienced in warehouse technology and traceability solutions. They can guide you through the transition, ensuring you make the most of the opportunities QR codes provide.
The bigger picture
The shift from GS1 barcodes to QR codes is about more than just technology; it’s a reflection of how businesses are evolving to meet the demands of a fast-changing world. As supply chains become more complex and customer expectations continue to rise, having reliable, detailed, and flexible data at your fingertips is no longer optional—it’s essential.
For warehouses, this is an opportunity to embrace innovation and future-proof operations. Whether through upgrading hardware, optimising workflows, or enhancing software solutions, the transition to QR codes can position businesses to thrive in the years ahead.
A nod to the past, a look to the future
While we bid farewell to the GS1 barcode, it’s worth celebrating the legacy it leaves behind. Its introduction in the UK marked a turning point for industries across the country, paving the way for decades of progress in traceability and efficiency.
As we look ahead to 2027, the rise of QR codes signals the start of an exciting new era, one where technology empowers businesses to achieve even greater heights. If you haven’t already started planning for the change, now is the time to take action.
Whether it’s reviewing your equipment, training your staff, or seeking expert advice, the steps you take today will set you up for success tomorrow.