Introduction

GS1 DataBar Symbols (formerly called RSS) can identify small items and carry more information than the current EAN/UPC bar code. GS1 DataBar will enable Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) identification for hard-to-mark products like fresh foods, and can carry GS1 Application Identifiers such as serial numbers, batch/lot numbers, and expiry dates, which creates the opportunity for solutions supporting product authentication and traceability, product quality and effectiveness, and variable measure product identification.

Key Concepts

• GS1 DataBar symbols were endorsed by GS1 based on a business case developed by a global task force including retailers, consumer goods manufacturers and pharmaceutical companies.
• GS1 DataBar symbols and GS1 Application Identifiers will be available in all trade item scanning systems beginning January 1, 2010.
• GS1 DataBar symbols provide an alternative to existing EAN/UCC bar codes, but will not necessarily replace them. It is for the brand owner (the party responsible for specifying package design) to decide.

GS1 UK Initiative

GS1 UK is actively supporting the introduction of GS1 DataBar in the UK as well as engaging in global discussions about introduction of the bar code. The UK programme includes:

• Dialogue with retailers and their suppliers to understand their expectations and needs and to determine the benefits and impacts.
• Assessment of UK retailers’ ability to scan GS1 DataBar now and at the 2010 deadline.
• Work with Solution Providers to be sure they are aware of the GS1 DataBar implementation, to understand the capabilities of their equipment and to encourage them to tell their customers about GS1 DataBar.
• Communication with the many independent retailers all of whom will need to be ready for GS1 DataBar.
• Support for retail trials of the bar code.
  

GS1 UK is contributing to the continuing development of the global standards and implementation guidelines, for example by:

• Putting forward the UK needs for use of GS1 DataBar on fresh produce, coupons and items sold to the consumer by weight.
• Taking part in the global discussions on the desirability and practicality of using GS1 DataBar to bar code dates, batch numbers and serial numbers on items sold to consumers.

GS1 UK invites members to say what they think about the introduction of GS1 DataBar, the opportunities for its use and any issues foreseen in its implementation. This is your chance to shape the emerging standard and contribute to an industry-wide understanding of how the benefits can be realised.

To put forward your views,  please contact us.

Business Case for GS1 DataBar

26 companies, including retailers, fast moving consumer goods manufacturers, pharmaceutical companies, GS1 Member Organisations and trade associations, contributed to the business case  for GS1 DataBar.

The documents that can be found at the links explain the business case for GS1 DataBar adoption and its implications and impact.

• GS1 DataBar Task Force's Business Case for GS1 DataBar, a detailed document that provides the task force's analysis (including quotes from task force members), highlights implementation issues and details a roadmap.
• An Executive Summary of the Business Case for GS1 DataBar

Implementing GS1 DataBar

To help the smooth adoption of GS1 DataBar and to provide retailers and manufacturers with the tools and information they need to work efficiently, GS1has created a series of useful tools and documents.

• GS1 DataBar Starter Kit for Retailers
• GS1 DataBar Starter Kit for Manufacturers
• Buyer's Guide for GS1 DataBar Scanners
• Buyer's Guide for GS1 DataBar Printers & Scales
• GS1 DataBar Scanner Compatibility

Summary of GS1 DataBar symbol types

Within the GS1 DataBar family there are seven symbol types. The symbol used depends on factors such as scanning environment, the type of item being identified, whether attribute information needs to be encoded in the barcode, and the size/shape of the space available on your item for symbol marking.

• Download the document summarising GS1 DataBar symbol types

Technical Reference Information

An overview of the GS1 DataBar symbology and its application is detailed within the  GS1 General Specifications

For auto-ID companies developing support for GS1 DataBar,  ISO/IEC 24724:2006 details the full symbology specification. Purchase a copy at the British Standards Institute On Line Store

Further information

• GS1 DataBar Frequently Asked Questions
• GS1 DataBar sunrise date Q & A
• For Further information contact GS1 UK