April 14, 2026 Industry news
How products are identified, shared and experienced is starting to look very different.
Barcodes are evolving beyond a simple scan at checkout. Increasingly, they're being used to connect products to richer digital experiences, real time information and trusted data that works seamlessly across retailers, supply chains and consumer touchpoints.
To support this shift, we’ll shortly be introducing a powerful new capability within My Numberbank, making it easier for GS1 UK members to create QR codes powered by GS1.
This is more than just another QR code. It’s a practical change in how product information can be shared and used.
What’s changing?
With QR codes powered by GS1, a single scan can unlock far more than a product number. They create a direct connection between a product and trusted, standards based digital information, helping brands engage customers, share accurate product details and prepare for the next generation of barcodes.
Built on global GS1 standards and linked to your Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs), QR codes powered by GS1 are designed to work wherever your products go, from point of sale and supply chains to retail partners and consumer interactions.
As retailer expectations and regulatory requirements continue to grow, they offer a practical way to future proof packaging and unlock more value from every product.
Coming soon: QR code generation in My Numberbank
Very soon, you’ll be able to create QR codes powered by GS1 directly within My Numberbank.
This new capability will allow you to generate trusted, GS1 standards based QR codes from the same place you already manage your barcodes, helping keep everything connected, consistent and easy to manage.
Directly from the platform, you’ll be able to link products to digital content, product information and richer customer experiences, while maintaining the data quality and interoperability GS1 standards are known for.
All powered by a single scan.
How QR codes powered by GS1 will help your business
QR codes powered by GS1 will help you to:
- Build deeper customer engagement by connecting products to digital experiences that go beyond the pack
- Ensure product information is trusted and standards based, supporting consistency across different channels
- Prepare for the global transition to next generation barcodes, already underway in many markets
- Get started quickly, using a tool included as part of your GS1 UK membership
Looking ahead: Premium QR
Alongside this launch, members will also be able to explore Premium QR, which extends what’s possible with QR codes powered by GS1.
Premium QR will unlock additional customer engagement opportunities, including branded landing pages, multilanguage content and dynamic link management.
This gives you greater flexibility over how your content is delivered, without changing what’s printed on pack.
Keep an eye out
QR codes powered by GS1 will play a defining role in the future of product identification and they’ll be available in My Numberbank very soon.
We’ll be sharing more information, guidance and launch details shortly, so keep an eye on your inbox and our website.
