GS1 Sunrise 2027: How to Prepare for the Shift to 2D Barcodes
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Retail identification is moving beyond the familiar one-dimensional barcode. GS1 Sunrise 2027 is the global industry initiative designed to make retail point-of-sale systems capable of scanning and processing GS1-standard two-dimensional barcodes by the end of 2027. For manufacturers, distributors and retailers, the transition is not simply a label change. It affects scanners, software, master data, packaging and operational processes.
What changes with 2D barcodes?
A traditional EAN or UPC barcode normally carries a Global Trade Item Number (GTIN). A GS1 DataMatrix or GS1 QR Code can carry the GTIN together with structured information such as batch or lot number, serial number and expiration date. A GS1 Digital Link-enabled code can also connect the physical product to online information that can be updated without redesigning every digital touchpoint.
The industry goal is coexistence, not an overnight removal of linear barcodes. During the transition, operations may need to process both 1D and 2D symbols reliably. That makes early testing important, especially across checkout, receiving, warehouse, mobile and returns workflows.
Operational opportunities beyond checkout
- Expiry management: encoded dates can support better stock rotation and reduce waste.
- Traceability: lot and serial data can improve recall precision and chain-of-custody records.
- Inventory accuracy: richer scan data can strengthen receiving, picking and verification.
- Consumer information: one code can connect customers to current product, recycling or usage information.
- Counterfeit protection: unique identifiers can support product authentication when paired with the right data platform.
A practical readiness roadmap
1. Audit every scanning point. List fixed scanners, mobile computers, handheld readers, vision systems and software interfaces. A device that can image a QR code may still require configuration or application changes to process GS1 data correctly.
2. Review product data. Decide which data elements have operational value and establish ownership for GTINs, batch data, dates and serialisation. A capable symbol cannot compensate for inconsistent source data.
3. Test printing and verification. Symbol size, quiet zones, contrast, substrate and print quality all influence scan performance. Verification should cover the actual packaging and production environment, not only a clean office sample.
4. Run a controlled pilot. Start with a limited product family and a defined workflow. Measure first-pass read rate, transaction time, exception rate and data accuracy before scaling.
5. Plan coexistence. Maintain reliable support for existing linear barcodes while introducing 2D capability. The migration should protect current operations while creating a path toward richer identification.
How LENASYS can help
LENASYS helps organisations assess scanners, mobile devices, printing, verification and software integration as one connected identification system. A readiness assessment can identify gaps early and turn the Sunrise 2027 deadline into a practical improvement programme rather than a last-minute equipment replacement.
Contact LENASYS to discuss a 2D barcode readiness assessment for your operation.
Sources
Photo: Mediamodifier / Unsplash.
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