Why do I need to join GS1 UK?

GS1 UK licenses unique numbers to identify everything from products to patients. These numbers are used for bar codes, RFID tags, in electronic communications and for data synchronisation.

On joining GS1 UK you will be given a GS1 company prefix. This is a unique number that makes your company, and each of its products, instantly recognisable and unmistakable to your customers (and their customers) around the globe.

Then, for example, using your company prefix you will be able to create unique numbers to bar code products.

What do I get for my membership?

Each member receives:

• Unique GS1 company prefix
• Freefone Service Team support for GS1 System queries
• Online tools to help you create, store and allocate numbers, find solution providers in your area, and get involved in special interest and technical groups
• Influence over the standards process – through global standards management process
• Implementation manuals to assist in the use of GS1 solutions
• Quarterly magazine to keep you up-to-date with new standards and services
• One free delegate pass to GS1 UK events
• Access to professional services such as consulting and training

There are also huge potential benefits for your business:

• More efficient business systems through the automation of key processes and access to real-time information
• Improved return on investment by reducing inventory holdings and associated costs
• Greater productivity due to improved tracking of stocks and materials, which reduces administration time and costs
• Increased sales by reducing or eliminating out-of-stock situations
• Traceability, where the life history of any item can be tracked, enabling product recalls to be targeted accurately and problems traced back to the source
• Better customer service by speeding up delivery times, continuous replenishment and ensuring predictable stock availability

How do I join?

You can join GS1 UK today using the online application form.

You will need the following information to complete the form:

• A copy of your Companies House registration number (if applicable)
• Credit card or debit card details

If you apply online you will be issued a 9-digit company prefix (1,000 EAN-13 numbers). If you immediately require an 8 or 7-digit prefix (10,000 or 100,000 EAN-13 numbers respectively) or if you plan to trade in the US, then please contact Service Team to get the correct application form.

For more information on how to subscribe to EPCglobal click here.

For more information on how to subscribe to the GS1 UK Data Pool click here.