Why is the goal to transition to 2D barcodes by 2027?

• The 2027 goal gives retailers time to upgrade their systems.
• This date allows for a phased rollout, ensuring that brand owners can test, adapt, and refine their use of next generation barcodes.
• The sooner businesses adopt next generation barcodes, the quicker they can unlock the benefits—such as better data and improved operational efficiency.

By 2027, we aim to have QR Codes powered by GS1 and other types of next generation barcodes, such as the GS1 DataMatrix, widely adopted in retail to meet growing demands for transparency and sustainability. It’s a collective effort from industry across the world to push this forward.