Leading scanning solution providers support GS1 global transition to next generation barcodes
Four of the world’s leading scanning solution providers - Datalogic, Honeywell, Newland AIDC and Zebra Technologies - have come together to support the retail industry’s global plan to transition to next generation barcodes. This provides confidence to New Zealand businesses that major software and hardware providers are progressing towards having Next Generation Barcodes scannable at point of sale globally by the end of 2027. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the transition to ensure that retail points-of-sale are equipped to scan GS1 QR Codes and GS1 DataMatrix Codes.
Why the world is moving to next generation barcodes
The traditional barcode, currently scanned over 10 billion times per day, has served retail well for decades, but today’s world is demanding more. Consumers want instant access to product safety, health and sustainability details, while retailers and regulators need deeper traceability. Next generation barcodes meet these needs by connecting products to rich digital information. These new barcodes can store batch numbers, expiry dates and sustainability credentials in one symbol - transforming a simple scan into a gateway for trust and efficiency.
The critical role of solution providers
The endorsement from these industry leaders is important because they provide the infrastructure and technical validation necessary for global interoperability. By engaging in pilot programmes and ensuring their hardware meets GS1 readiness standards, these providers are empowering businesses of all sizes to transform industry challenges into successful outcomes.
Enabling point-of-sale scanning in New Zealand
Key to the transition to next generation barcodes is ensuring retail point-of-sale systems are ready. Working with retailers and product manufacturers, GS1 NZ is aiming for all retail point-of-sale systems in New Zealand to scan GS1 QR Codes by the end of 2027.
This commitment from Datalogic, Honeywell, Newland AIDC and Zebra Technologies’ helps to give retailers, brand owners, consumers, and regulators confidence that the retail world will be ready for the transition.
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