For more than 50 years, barcodes have been the global standard for identifying products. Since the first retail barcode scan in 1974, 1D barcodes have transformed retail, manufacturing and supply chain operations by enabling faster checkout, inventory control and product identification.
Today, barcodes are scanned billions of times every day. However, as manufacturers, retailers and consumers require access to more information, the industry is moving towards a new generation of product identification using 2D codes and GS1 Digital Link.
What is GS1 Digital Link?
GS1 Digital Link is a global standard that connects a product’s identification data with online information through a 2D code, typically a QR code.
Unlike traditional 1D barcodes, which mainly provide product identification, GS1 Digital Link can connect products to a wider range of information, including:
- Product identification data
- Batch and lot information
- Serial numbers
- Expiry dates
- Regulatory information
- Sustainability details
- Product authentication information
- Consumer digital experiences
A single 2D code can support different applications depending on who is scanning it — from production systems and warehouse equipment to retailers and consumers.
Why Are Manufacturers Moving to 2D Codes?
The transition to GS1 Digital Link creates opportunities for manufacturers to improve:
- Product traceability
- Supply chain transparency
- Product authentication
- Regulatory compliance
- Consumer engagement
- Data management
Instead of using multiple codes for different purposes, manufacturers can move towards a single, connected product identity.
What Does This Mean for Production Lines?
The introduction of GS1 Digital Link creates new requirements for manufacturing and packaging operations.
Unlike pre-printed packaging information, 2D codes often contain dynamic information that changes for every production run or individual product. This means the code must be generated and printed directly during production.
Manufacturers need to consider:
- Integration with ERP and production management systems
- Real-time data exchange with coding equipment
- High-speed 2D code printing
- Machine vision verification
- Product handling and rejection systems
- Traceability and serialisation requirements
The quality of the printed code is critical. Poor-quality or unreadable 2D codes can result in production delays, rejected products and supply chain issues.
Printing and Verification Challenges
Successfully implementing GS1 Digital Link requires more than simply adding a QR code.
Manufacturers need reliable technologies capable of:
- Generating unique product information
- Printing high-resolution 2D codes at production speeds
- Verifying code readability and accuracy
- Recording production data
- Supporting future traceability requirements
Depending on the application, suitable technologies may include:
- Laser coders
- Continuous inkjet (CIJ) printers
- Thermal transfer printers
- Print & Apply labelling systems
- Machine vision verification systems
GS1 Digital Link and Industry 4.0
The transition to 2D codes is closely connected with the development of smarter, more connected factories.
By linking coding systems, inspection equipment and production data platforms, manufacturers can achieve improved visibility from production through the supply chain.
This supports wider Industry 4.0 objectives, including:
- Real-time production data
- Automated quality control
- Improved traceability
- Reduced waste
- Better decision-making
How AR Automation Can Help
AR Automation provides complete solutions to help manufacturers prepare for the future of product identification.
Our expertise includes:
- 2D code printing
- Coding and marking systems
- Machine vision verification
- Serialisation and aggregation
- Production line integration
- Smart Factory connectivity
We help manufacturers evaluate their current systems, understand future requirements and implement reliable solutions for the transition towards GS1 Digital Link and connected product identification.
Prepare Your Production for the Future
The move towards 2D codes is already underway. Manufacturers who prepare early will be better positioned to improve traceability, meet customer expectations and take advantage of new digital opportunities.
Complete the contact form below and our specialists will discuss how your production line can prepare for GS1 Digital Link.