The barcode was ‘one of the 50 things that made the world economy’ but a new revolution is coming

Ten billion barcodes are scanned every day across the world. And since their introduction 50 years ago they’ve revolutionised the way we do business. 

But as demand for more information on our products increases, it’s time for a new revolution. At least that’s what the global standards agency for barcodes, GS1 thinks. 

In this episode of The Big Question, Hannah Brown is joined in the studio by Renaud de Barbuat, the President and CEO of GS1 to discuss the future of barcodes. 

With a late 2027 target for full implementation, GS1 have created a next generation barcode. In essence, it’s a QR code with a barcode hidden inside. 

Retailers will be able to scan the QR code to keep track of stock levels and use-by dates and consumers will be able to see more details about ingredients, supply chain, usage and recycling.

“One scan, infinite possibilities,” Renaud proudly declared. 

GS1 already have some of the world’s retail giants on board with the transition. Companies like Carrefour, Lidl, Procter and Gamble, L'Oreal, PepsiCo and Nestlé have signed a joint statement supporting the migration to QR codes. 

Ultimately there is always a cost with infrastructure transition but Renaud is confident it’s achievable quickly for businesses of all sizes and will also reap quick returns. 

“The first small retailer in the world to adopt QR codes powered by GS1 is a deli shop in Brazil with three shops. 

“In two months, with the support of GS1 and solution providers, they've implemented the technology and the benefit for them was better inventory management - they have reduced waste by 50%.”

As well as business efficiency, GS1 hopes the new QR codes will also have a positive environmental impact too. 

For example, manufacturers can implement the QR