The UK’s quiet retail revolution, the shift to next generation barcodes, is entering its next phase as GS1 UK launches a new self‑serve QR code generator to help more brands prepare for adoption.
The new capability makes it easier for smaller brands, and SMEs, to create QR codes powered by GS1. It supports organisations looking for a simple way to get started and prepare for the transition, without changing the identifiers and standards they already rely on.
It comes as next generation barcodes move from pilots into live retail use. Tesco recently became the first UK supermarket to transition an entire product range to QR codes powered by GS1, adopting the next generation barcodes across its own‑label core sausage range and bringing the technology into everyday use at the checkout.
Branded QR codes powered by GS1 have begun appearing on products, signalling growing readiness across both retailers and brands as the industry prepares for the next generation of barcodes.
Linear barcodes have underpinned global retail for more than 50 years and will continue to play an important role: linking a product’s unique GS1 identifier, such as a Global Trade Item Number, to trusted digital information.
This can support improved visibility of batch and date information, more accurate inventory management and greater precision during product recalls, helping retailers and brands reduce waste, improve safety and strengthen consumer confidence.
QR codes powered by GS1 also open up new opportunities to provide shoppers with clearer, richer and more accessible product information, without changing how they shop or pay in store.
The launch of the QR code generator is designed to support the next phase of the transition by giving more organisations a simple way to get started, build capability at their own pace and embed next generation barcodes into everyday product data processes.
Anne Godfrey, CEO of GS1 UK, said: “QR codes powered by GS1 build on the foundations that have served retail so well for decades. By linking a product’s unique GS1 identifier to trusted digital information, they support a more connected and transparent future for the industry. Making it easier for businesses to adopt this technology is an important step in helping the UK retail sector prepare for what comes next.”
