Digital labelling key topic discussed...

GS1 QR codes can help drive competition and reduce red tape - that was the message shared at the annual networking event jointly hosted by the NZ Building Industry Federation and GS1 New Zealand. With Hon David Seymour, Minister of Regulation in attendance, the importance of sharing this message was timely as the New Zealand Government reviews product labelling including the role of digital labelling in New Zealand.

Digital labelling uses technology such as GS1 QR codes to link consumers from the physical product to digital product information such as ingredients, allergens and nutritional information. This can enable operational efficiencies, stronger product safety interventions, consumer engagement, and better access to international markets through making it possible to provide product information digitally off the product. At the same time scanning at point-of-sale is enabled through the same GS1 QR Code.

Dr. Peter Stevens, CEO of GS1 NZ moderated a panel discussion with Sean Goodwin, CEO of The Mānuka Collective, Will Hockings, Head of Sales & Category Operations at PlaceMakers, and Klaeri Schelhowe, 2D Barcodes Lead at GS1 NZ. The panel agreed that a standardised approach across industries such as building products, hardware, food and grocery and healthcare will be key to the success of digital labelling in New Zealand. Digital labelling will positively impact consumers, retailers, manufacturers, and regulators - and therefore requires globally aligned standards to ensure interoperability and scalability.

Key takeaways

Global standards are essential to ensure interoperability and avoid fragmented national approaches.
Digital labelling connects physical products to trusted digital information, improving transparency across supply chains.
International alignment is critical, particularly as markets such as the EU move toward digital product passports.
Operational efficiencies and improved traceability are among the most immediate business benefits.
Digital labelling supports product safety and can enable more effective product recalls.
For the building sector, digital labelling can support circular economy goals, product substantiation, installation and warranty information along with sustainability reporting.

The event highlighted digital labelling’s rapid move from concept to implementation as the global initiative to have all retail point-of-sale systems able to scan digital labels by the end of 2027 is driving the adoption of digital labelling powered by GS1 standards.