When will QR codes replace linear barcodes on products?

The transition is already happening

For over 50 years, GS1 standards have enabled products to be identified and scanned across retail, healthcare and supply chains. Today, that system is evolving.

The shift to QR codes powered by GS1 is actively underway. Across the UK and globally, brands, retailers and solution providers are already upgrading systems, trialling new codes and embedding new ways of working.

QR codes powered by GS1 enable products to carry more data than traditional barcodes. This supports a wider range of business and consumer use cases, including:

Do I need to replace my barcode?

In most cases, no - not yet.

You should assume that you will still need a traditional barcode on pack until the majority of retailers can scan QR codes powered by GS1 at point of sale.

For a period of time, many products will carry both:

This phased approach allows organisations to adopt new capabilities without disrupting current operations. 

What organisations are doing now

Organisations are already taking practical steps, including:

Is this being mandated?

No. There is no single deadline requiring all GS1 UK members to replace traditional barcodes.

This is an industry transition that will happen at different speeds depending on sector, use case, regulations and trading partner readiness. GS1 UK’s role is to support members with standards, guidance and implementation support.