Understanding GS1 Sunrise 2027 and 2D codes

August 26, 2026

GS1 Sunrise 2027, 2D Barcodes, QR Codes, DataMatrix Codes, Retail Point of Sale, Product Identification

What is GS1 Sunrise 2027?

GS1 Sunrise 2027 is an industry initiative intended to help enable retail point-of-sale (PoS) systems to scan and process 2D barcodes in addition to or instead of traditional EAN/UPC barcodes. Both QR codes powered by GS1 Digital Link and DataMatrix codes can carry more information than linear barcodes while supporting product identification, consumer engagement, aspects of regulatory compliance, and retail scanning. The initiative represents an important evolution in barcode technology.

Today, EAN/UPC barcodes remain the primary identifier used at retail checkout. Under GS1 Sunrise 2027, manufacturers are evaluating how 2D codes may complement existing barcode systems and support future business needs. Rather than a single change taking place on a specific date, Sunrise 2027 is an ongoing industry effort involving retailers, brands, manufacturers, technology providers, and standards manufacturers.

Additional resource: For details on the GS1 Sunrise 2027 initiative and industry adoption guidance, visit the GS1 Sunrise 2027 Overview.

Why the move to 2D codes matters

Traditional EAN/UPC barcodes have successfully supported retail operations for decades. However, they are primarily designed to identify a product through its Global Trade Item Number (GTIN). Many manufacturers are seeking ways to make additional information available within a barcode while maintaining compatibility with retail scanning systems.

Depending on the application, 2D codes may support:

Product identification through the GTIN
Batch or lot information
Expiration dates
Serial numbers
Links to digital product information
Improved traceability initiatives

The ability to incorporate additional data within a single code rather than multiple codes taking up valuable product real estate, has contributed to growing industry interest in 2D barcode adoption. However, the specific data elements included in a 2D code depend on business requirements, industry practices, and applicable standards.

Retail readiness and the Sunrise 2027 timeline

A common misconception is that Sunrise 2027 represents a mandatory cutover date. In reality, GS1 describes Sunrise 2027 as a milestone intended to help ensure retail systems can read and process 2D barcodes. Manufacturers are expected to adopt 2D barcode capabilities at different rates based on their products, markets, trading partners, and operational priorities.

As retailers continue upgrading point-of-sale systems and scanning technologies, brands and manufacturers are assessing how 2D codes may fit within their packaging and product identification strategies. This often requires collaboration between multiple teams, including:

Packaging and operations
Quality and regulatory groups
Information technology
Supply chain teams
Marketing and consumer engagement teams

Successful planning helps brands and manufacturers align barcode strategies with both current operational requirements and future business goals.

2D codes and existing EAN/UPC barcodes

For many brands and manufacturers, adoption of 2D codes does not mean immediately removing existing EAN/UPC barcodes. Packaging may contain both a traditional barcode and a 2D barcode while retailers, manufacturers, and supply chain partners continue implementing support for newer technologies.

This approach can help manufacturers:

Maintain compatibility with existing systems
Support retail scanning requirements
Introduce new capabilities incrementally
Reduce operational disruption
Evaluate performance before broader implementation

Planning for coexistence between barcode formats is an important consideration for many Sunrise 2027 initiatives.

Boost your coding efficiency with proven solutions

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

Explore related resources to deepen your understanding of 2D barcodes, GS1 standards, and implementation best practices.

GS1 Digital Link and 2D code implementation

Explore GS1 Digital Link, Application Identifiers, data structure, QR code design considerations, printing approaches, and validation practices that support successful 2D barcode implementation.

Learn how to implement 2D codes

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