QR Codes to Replace Barcodes by 2027 – What Businesses Need to Do Now
By 2027, the familiar barcode (those black lines you see on packaging) will begin to disappear. GS1, the global group that created the barcode system, has announced a move to a new global standard called GS1 Digital Link, a modern, web-connected QR code that can hold far more information.
At a summit, GS1 President Renaud de Barbuat said, “Every product will soon be connected to the web, unlocking better traceability, safety, and transparency for everyone.” That transition is already under way, with nearly half of global retailers updating scanners to read these new codes!
What’s Changing
Traditional 1D barcodes hold very limited information — usually just the product number and price. The new 2D GS1 Digital Link codes look like QR codes and can include:
The item’s GTIN (Global Trade Item Number)
Batch / lot number
Expiration date
Serial number
Website link or warranty page
Ingredient, allergen, or recycling details
So instead of one scan just showing a price, one QR-style code can handle pricing, inventory tracking, and even customer-facing details in a single symbol!
Why It Matters
This change affects every part of labeling…Printers, scanners, software, and data. Switching to GS1 Digital Link helps businesses:
Stop expired or recalled products from being sold.
Improve tracking from factory to store.
Meet new global labeling rules like the EU Digital Product Passport.
Share more product info with customers using the same label.
What Businesses Need to Do Now
Here’s exactly how to start preparing:
1. Audit Your Equipment
Make a list of every printer, scanner, and labeling software you use.
Check if your equipment can handle 2D codes (QR or Data Matrix).
Update device firmware when available.
If a printer is more than five years old, test it for 2D print quality. Older printheads might blur or distort tiny code patterns.
Print a small sample QR code and scan it with your phone or a handheld scanner.
If it doesn’t read easily or looks fuzzy, it may be time to replace or upgrade.
2. Update Your Label Design and Data Systems
Make sure your label software supports GS1 Digital Link.
Use updated versions of BarTender, ZebraDesigner 3, or similar programs. These can generate 2D barcodes in the GS1 Digital Link format.
Prepare your data for each product (SKU).
Each item you sell needs:
A GTIN (Global Trade Item Number).
Any extra data you’ll include like batch/lot numbers, expiration dates, or serial numbers. Keep these fields organized in your product database or spreadsheet.
Set up where the QR code will lead.
When a QR code is scanned, it can open a web page with product details. Decide what that should be…
A simple page on your website.
Or an internal database page used by your warehouse or retail system.
3. Create and Test New 2D Labels
In your label software, choose QR Code or Data Matrix as the barcode type.
Select the GS1 Digital Link option.
Enter your GTIN.
Print a few test labels on the same material you normally use.
Scan them with both your scanners and a smartphone.
If scans fail or links don’t open, increase print resolution or clean the printhead.
How to Add GS1 Digital Link Codes to Your Labels
Step 1 – Open Your Label Template
Open your label design software and select a 2D barcode type (QR or Data Matrix).
Step 2 – Enter Product Data
Add your GTIN first, then optional fields like batch number, expiration date, or serial number.
Step 3 – Link to the Product Info Page
Make sure the link in the barcode points to a real web or database page that displays or stores the correct product info.
Step 4 – Print and Verify
Print a sample label. Scan it with your production scanners and a phone camera. If it reads quickly and shows the right data, you’re ready for production.
Step 5 – Use Both Codes During Transition
Keep printing the old barcode next to the new 2D code until all your systems and partners fully support GS1 Digital Link.
Questions about the change?
The change to QR-based barcodes is coming fast. Starting now lets you avoid last-minute stress, cut labeling errors, and stay ahead of competitors.
Update your printers, scanners, and label software soon…
And make sure your data is ready for the QR-connected future of retail!
Questions? Fill out the quick form below or contact us here and one of our experts will help you!