GS1 US rolls out test kit for retailer 2D barcode transition

 

GS1 US has released a Barcode Capabilities Test Kit to help retailers gauge their readiness to shift from linear Universal Product Codes (UPCs) to data-rich 2D barcodes on product packaging by 2027.

The program is part of a migration plan for phasing out UPCs and implementing 2D barcodes, dubbed Sunrise 2027 — A New Dimension in Barcodes, that will steer brands through labeling transitions and help ensure the reliability of 2D barcode scanning.

While the UPC barcode has provided price lookup functionality for decades, the standard isn’t up to the task in the digital age, with rising demand for more product information transparency, traceability and authentication, according to GS1 US.