Enabling commerce through standards and services

    GS1 New Zealand is part of GS1, the world's leading supply chain standards organisation. We provide globally recognised barcodes, data management tools, and expert services to help businesses succeed in today's connected marketplace.

    8,000+
    NZ Members
    45+
    Years Experience
    116
    Countries
    10B+
    Daily Scans

    What we do

    GS1 develops and maintains global standards for business communication. These standards create a common foundation for identifying, capturing, and sharing vital information about products, locations, assets, and services.

    Beyond standards, we provide practical tools and services that make commerce easier – from barcode verification and product data management to recall systems and professional photography. Everything you need to get your products to market with confidence.

    Why businesses choose GS1

    As a not-for-profit organisation, our sole focus is helping New Zealand businesses succeed.

    Global standards

    We're part of a worldwide network of 116 GS1 member organisations, ensuring your products can be identified anywhere.

    Locally focused

    With over 8,000 New Zealand members, we understand the unique needs of Kiwi businesses.

    Trusted expertise

    Over 45 years of experience helping businesses implement effective identification standards.

    The Mānuka Collective: Offering traceability and transparency in honey with GS1 QR Codes - The Mānuka Collective member story

    Member Story

    The Mānuka Collective: Offering traceability and transparency in honey with GS1 QR Codes

    The Mānuka Collective uses GS1 QR Codes to offer consumers transparent product information and traceability.

    Membership benefits

    When you join GS1 New Zealand, you get more than just barcodes. You get access to a comprehensive suite of tools, training, and support to help your business grow.

    • Unique product identification accepted worldwide
    • Access to MyGS1 online member portal
    • Training and support from local experts
    • Connection to a global network of retailers and suppliers
    • Future-proof your business with emerging standards
    • Dedicated member support team

    Ready to join?

    Becoming a GS1 member is quick and easy. Get your barcodes and start selling today.

    Get started

    Our history

    Since forming in the 1970s, the organisation that is now GS1 New Zealand has been helping businesses to refine and streamline their supply chains. Established in 1979, we've been serving Kiwi businesses for over 45 years as part of the global GS1 network of 116 member organisations in over 150 countries.

    1974Today
    1974

    First live barcode scan in the world - Wrigley's Juicy Fruit chewing gum

    1979

    Grocery leaders form New Zealand Product Numbering Council, later becomes GS1 New Zealand

    1981

    New Zealand becomes 16th country member of what is now called GS1

    1983

    New Zealand's first "live" barcode scanning at Napier's Taradale New World

    1984

    The ITF-14 barcode for use on outer packaging of products is launched

    1986

    GS1 New Zealand membership reaches 1,000 companies

    1989

    GS1-128 barcode for identifying pallets and cartons introduced

    1993

    85% of all groceries sold in New Zealand are scanned at point of sale

    1994

    New Zealand's first barcode testing service launched

    2001

    Major New Zealand supermarket companies adopt mandatory barcode verification for products

    2005

    EAN and UCC merge to form GS1

    2005

    EPC/RFID launched

    2009

    New Zealand CEO appointed to GS1 Global Advisory Council

    2010

    Scanning in 150 countries - 5 billion "beeps" globally every day

    2012

    Product Recall launched

    2013

    NZBN partnership with GS1 New Zealand

    2014

    DHB National Catalogue launched based on GS1 standards

    2015

    GS1 New Zealand supports over 5,000 members

    2019

    GS1 New Zealand celebrates 40 year anniversary

    2019

    GS1 New Zealand launches redesigned website

    2019

    GS1 Auckland office relocates to Freemans Bay, Auckland

    2020

    COVID-19 tracing with GS1 identifiers

    2020

    Digital passport for every consumer product - idea introduced in New Zealand

    2020

    Transport data standardisation supports global trade

    2021

    The barcode turns 50!

    2021

    Grocery sector agrees to adopt Serial Shipping Container Codes as the preferred logistic label

    2023

    The global migration to next generation barcodes is launched

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    Social & environmental responsibility

    GS1 New Zealand is committed to making a positive impact in our community and environment.

    Environmental sustainability

    Supporting the transition to sustainable packaging and reducing supply chain waste through better data.

    Community partners

    Working with local charities and food banks to improve product traceability and reduce food waste.

    Industry collaboration

    Partnering with government and industry bodies to drive positive change across New Zealand's supply chains.

    GS1 around the world

    GS1 is a global network of member organisations in over 150 countries. Find your local GS1 office.

    Visit GS1 Global Directory