GS1 Digital Link and 2D Code Implementation

Videojet Knowledge Hub Team

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August 26, 2026

GS1 Digital Link, 2D Barcode Implementation, GS1 Application Identifiers, QR Codes, Barcode Validation, GS1 Sunrise 2027

GS1 Application Identifiers and data structure

The effectiveness of a 2D code depends not only on print quality, but also on the information it contains and how that information is structured. GS1 standards provide a framework for encoding information through Application Identifiers (AIs), which define the meaning and format of specific data elements.

Application Identifiers help ensure consistency across products, organizations, and supply chain partners. Common examples include:

• GTIN (01)
• Batch or lot number (10)
• Serial number (21)
• Expiration date (17)
• CPV – Consumer Product Variant (22)

These identifiers allow systems to interpret barcode data consistently and support interoperability across different environments and technologies.

Reference: The complete list of GS1 Application Identifiers is available through the GS1 Application Identifier Directory.

Understanding GS1 Digital Link

Under GS1 Sunrise 2027, QR codes powered by GS1 Digital Link are increasingly being used as the preferred format for retail point-of-sale applications and consumer-facing experiences. GS1 Digital Link is a standards-based approach that allows product information to be represented in a web-compatible format. Rather than functioning only as a product identifier, a GS1 Digital Link-enabled QR code may serve as a gateway to structured product information and digital resources.

For brands and manufacturers implementing Sunrise 2027 initiatives, GS1 Digital Link provides a method of connecting products to digital information while maintaining standards-based identification. Depending on business requirements, these capabilities may support retail operations, product information management, traceability initiatives, and other digital services.

Reference: The official GS1 Digital Link specification is available through the GS1 Digital Link Standard.

QR code design considerations

Successful implementation requires more than selecting the right data elements. The design of the QR code itself can influence scan performance and usability.

Important considerations include:

• Available print area
• Inventory management, particularly a reduction in perishable food waste
• Packaging material
• Required scan distance
• Data volume
• Scanner technology
• Retail PoS requirements

Brands and manufacturers should evaluate code size, placement, and print quality requirements early in the planning process. Decisions made during package design can affect production efficiency and downstream scanning performance.

Pre-print versus inline printing

One of the most important implementation decisions involves determining how codes will be produced.

Pre-printed codes may be appropriate when barcode content is fixed and does not change from package to package. In contrast, many manufacturers implementing Sunrise 2027 strategies may choose inline printing because it allows variable data to be added during production. Examples include batch numbers, expiration dates, and serialization data.

Potential advantages of inline printing include:

• Use of live production data
• Reduced packaging obsolescence
• Greater flexibility
• Support for dynamic information
• Simplified future updates

The best approach depends on production requirements, packaging formats, operational goals, and data needs.

Syntax and data validation

A QR code may appear of high quality to the human eye but could still contain formatting errors that would be problematic in the supply chain. Correct syntax and data structure are essential for standards compliance and reliable system performance.

Manufacturers should establish processes to help confirm:

• Correct Application Identifier usage
• Accurate data formatting
• Proper data sequencing
• Compliance with GS1 requirements
• Alignment with approved product records

Validation activities can help identify issues before products reach distribution channels or retail environments. Combined with print quality verification, data validation is an important component of successful GS1 Sunrise 2027 implementation.

Reference: Visit the GS1 General Specifications and applicable GS1 guidance when defining and validating barcode data structures.

Explore the complete GS1 Sunrise 2027 guide

This article covers one aspect of GS1 Sunrise 2027. Visit our main guide for an overview of 2D barcode adoption, implementation considerations, retail readiness, and practical resources for brands and manufacturers.

View the complete GS1 Sunrise 2027 guide

Continue your GS1 Sunrise 2027 journey

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