The world’s largest scanning solution providers, Datalogic, Honeywell, Newland AIDC and Zebra Technologies, are supporting the transition to retail 2D barcodes on product packaging. GS1 Australia has welcomed the collaboration, stating it marks a major step forward for Australian retailers preparing for the next era of product transparency, digital shopping experiences and supply chain efficiency.
The partnership was initially announced in January, with GS1 Australia releasing a statement in April saying the announcement confirms that the scanning hardware ecosystem is ready for the global shift to 2D barcodes, giving retailers, brands and solution providers the confidence to accelerate their own transition programs.
GS1 Australia commissioned a report last year that revealed the nation’s GDP could be boosted by up to $50 billion a year if supply chain data standards were improved. The Centre for International Economics discovered industry use of supply chain data standards is quietly driving a significant share of Australia’s economic output, contributing up to $27.3 billion annually to GDP, and could play an increasingly important role in reversing the nation’s lagging productivity – a major point of concern in recent years.
According to GS1, next generation barcodes such as the GS1 DataMatrix will unlock a new level of product intelligence where consumers can access trusted product information on their phones, retailers can improve traceability and recall processes, and suppliers can provide accurate data on ingredients, allergens, sustainability credentials, expiry dates and batch information. These capabilities support better stock rotation, reduced waste and more personalised shopping experiences.
Australia is already rolling out this information, with the SmartFacts digital labelling platform launched in May 2025 – powered by GS1 QR code technology and aiming to reshape consumer engagement and usher in a new era of product transparency.
A collaborative project between the Australian Food and Grocery Council (AFGC), the New Zealand Food & Grocery Council (NZFGC), and GS1 Australia and New Zealand, SmartFacts gives consumers instant access to standardised, real-time product information such as nutritional details, allergens, and brand provenance via a simple smartphone scan.
GS1 Australia CEO, Maria Palazzolo, said the alignment of the world’s leading scanning technology companies represents a turning point for the industry, and strengthens Australia’s position as an early mover in the global transition to 2D barcodes.
“The global scanning community has never been this united, and it gives Australian retailers the confidence they need to embrace next generation barcodes,” said Palazzolo.
“This is far more than a technical upgrade. It lays the groundwork for safer products, stronger sustainability claims and richer, more reliable information for every shopper as the world transitions to Next Generation Barcodes from 2027 and with four global leaders now aligned, the ecosystem is ready to move.
“We know Australian retailers are eager to accelerate, to deliver greater transparency for consumers and better data, and to operate seamlessly across global supply chains. This level of global commitment confirms the industry is prepared, and GS1 Australia is ready to lead the transition.”
GS1 Australia is currently working closely with retailers, manufacturers, solution providers and technology partners to support national readiness. This includes pilots, technical guidance for infrastructure upgrades, collaboration with Australian brands exploring consumer transparency initiatives and education programs for suppliers and retailers.
