2D Barcodes for Retailers

Why 2D barcodes matter for retailers

• Smarter inventory management: With GS1 2D barcodes, product data like expiry date, batch number, pack date, and pricing is embedded directly into the code. This allows automated markdowns and expiry-based discounts, leading to fewer manual errors and more accurate stock control.
• Less food waste, greater sustainability: By enabling better stock rotation and date tracking, 2D barcodes help reduce shrinkage and minimise food waste — a win for both your bottom line and your sustainability goals.
• Faster product recalls: If a product recall occurs, 2D barcodes allow you to stop affected items at POS, trace them by batch or expiry date, and act quickly to protect customers and brand reputation.
• Improved product traceability: For variable measure products like fresh produce and meat, the barcode can encode GTIN, weight, count, and price — making it easier to identify, trace, and track goods throughout the supply chain.
• Speed and accuracy at checkout: Fewer errors and faster identification of similar items (like different varieties of apples or cuts of meat) help reduce checkout times and improve customer experience.
• Operational efficiency: Woolworths has reported up to 21% improvements in staff productivity thanks to 2D barcodes. Store teams no longer need to manually enter expiry dates for markdowns — they just scan the item and print the label.
• Built-in error protection: 2D barcodes come with error correction technology, meaning they can still be read even if damaged, scratched, or partially obscured.

How to transition to 2D barcodes

Rolling out 2D barcodes in your retail operations isn’t just a technology upgrade — it’s a strategic shift toward smarter, more connected retailing. For New Zealand retailers, making the move requires thoughtful planning, infrastructure readiness, and collaboration across your supply chain.

Here’s how to successfully make the transition.

Step 1: Define your use case

Start by identifying how 2D barcodes will support your retail goals. Will they help manage inventory more accurately? Enable traceability? Engage consumers?

Use the table below to map retail scenarios to the data you’ll need to encode.

Step 2: Upgrade your scanning infrastructure

To scan 2D barcodes, you’ll need to move from traditional laser scanners to camera-based (optical) scanners. These systems need to be configured to read both 1D and 2D barcodes, including:

• EAN-13, UPC-At
• GS1 DataBar
• 2D barcodes: GS1 DataMatrix, Data Matrix, QR Code (with GS1 Digital Link)

Where to upgrade:

• POS checkout scanners
• Handheld inventory devices
• Weigh-labelling and scale systems

Pro Tip: Work closely with your hardware and software providers early on to ensure compatibility and proper configuration.

Step 3: Train your team

Staff will need to understand how 2D barcodes differ from linear codes and how to use them effectively across the store. Key training areas include:

• Scanning techniques at POS and in stockrooms
• Recognising different 2D barcode types
• Understanding product data retrieved from scans

Step 4: Test, learn, repeat

Run a pilot program, gather feedback, and refine your processes. Use this phase to:

• Validate barcode readability
• Check scanner configuration
• Identify system gaps in handling data like expiry dates or batch codes

Stay updated: Follow Reynolds and GS1 New Zealand to keep pace with 2D barcode developments.