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GS1 Standards & Innovation

Discover how GS1 global standards drive innovation in retail, healthcare and supply chain across 150+ countries.
Abstract network visualisation representing GS1 global data standards

Connecting Supply Chains Worldwide

GS1 standards provide a common language for businesses to identify, capture and share information about products, locations and assets. From farm to shelf, our standards ensure that the right product reaches the right place at the right time - reducing errors, costs and waste.
Used by retailers, manufacturers, hospitals and logistics providers, GS1 standards are the invisible backbone of global trade.
 

  1. Explore supply chain standards
Warehouse workers using handheld scanners in a logistics centre

The Future of Product Identity is Here

GS1 QR Codes are replacing traditional barcodes, enabling richer product data, consumer engagement and seamless omnichannel experiences - all from a single scan.
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The Future of Product Identity is Here

6 Billion

barcodes scanned every day

2 Million

companies using GS1 standards

150+

countries in the GS1 network

1973

year GS1 was founded
Unique product identification across every channel
A single global language for supply chain data
Faster, more accurate logistics and traceability

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is a GS1 barcode?

    A GS1 barcode is a machine-readable symbol that encodes a GS1 identifier (such as a GTIN) to enable automatic identification and data capture at any point in the supply chain.

  2. How do I get a GS1 company prefix?

    You can apply for a GS1 company prefix through your local GS1 Member Organisation. The prefix is used to create unique GTINs for all your products.

  3. What is the difference between a barcode and a QR code?

    A traditional GS1 barcode (EAN/UPC) stores a single product identifier. A GS1 QR Code can store the same identifier plus additional data such as batch number,             expiry date and a URL - making it suitable for both supply chain and consumer use.

  4. Where can I find the GS1 standards documentation?

    All GS1 standards are publicly available on gs1.org/standards. The GS1 General Specifications document is the primary reference for barcode and data carrier standards.