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As we approach the GS1 Sunrise 2027 deadline, manufacturers, retailers, and supply chain professionals must prepare for a transition from traditional 1D barcodes to more powerful 2D barcodes on product packaging. This shift isn’t just about upgrading technology. It’s about unlocking smarter data, improving safety, and staying competitive in an increasingly digital supply chain.
Sunrise 2027 is a global initiative led by GS1, a not-for-profit global data standards organization, that aims to make 2D barcodes the new standard at the point of sale (PoS) by 2027. This means that product packaging will need to include scannable 2D codes that can store more information than traditional 1D UPC barcodes. These 2D codes will create a smarter, more connected supply chain with real-time visibility, product traceability, and enhanced consumer engagement.
Traditional 1D barcodes are the standard Universal Product Code (UPC) that is seen on most retail products. This type of barcode contains basic product identification data, such as the Global Trade Item Number (GTIN), product name, price, and inventory status, but does not hold any descriptive or dynamic information like expiration dates or batch numbers.
On the other hand, 2D barcodes contain significantly more data, such as GTIN, lot or batch number, expiration date, serial number, and even a URL for product authentication, traceability, or user instructions. The additional data capacity of 2D codes enables dynamic, real-time communication between supply chain systems, helping businesses improve inventory accuracy, recall readiness, and regulatory compliance.
The impact of Sunrise 2027 will extend across the entire product lifecycle, from manufacturing and packaging to retail checkout and consumer engagement. This industry-wide shift requires every stakeholder in the supply chain to adapt their systems, processes, and equipment to support the use of 2D barcodes. Here's a breakdown of how each stage of the supply chain will need to adapt.
Manufacturers
Manufacturers must begin printing GS1-compliant 2D barcodes on all applicable product packaging. This will require upgrading or retrofitting printers and labeling systems to handle 2D code printing, ensuring data accuracy and compliance with GS1 standards.
Retailers
Retailers must upgrade their point-of-sale (PoS) systems and barcode scanners to support GS1-compliant 2D barcode formats, such as DataMatrix and QR codes with GS1 Digital Link, ensuring accurate data capture at checkout. Additionally, major retailers, including Walmart, are already requesting suppliers to adopt GS1 2D barcodes as part of their compliance strategies
Distributors & Warehouses
More accurate product tracking will benefit distributors and logistics providers, but they will also need to adapt their current warehouse management systems (WMS) to decode and store expanded 2D barcode data.
Regulatory Agencies
Regulatory agencies will gain improved visibility into product origin, movement, and compliance, enabling faster and more targeted recall actions to support greater public safety and transparency.
Preparing for GS1 Sunrise 2027 involves more than just printing a new barcode. Companies need to make thoughtful updates to packaging, printing, and data systems to support 2D barcode integration across operations. Companies that take a proactive approach will not only meet evolving retail and regulatory expectations but also gain advantages in traceability, automation, and customer engagement.
Evaluate and Upgrade Barcode Printing Equipment
Not all existing printers are capable of producing GS1-compliant 2D barcodes. It is important to assess your current marking and coding equipment and upgrade to compatible thermal inkjet, CIJ, or labeling systems if needed.
The Matthews Marking Systems CT1000 is a high-performance thermal inkjet printer designed to meet GS1 Sunrise 2027 standards. With high-resolution printing, easy integration into packaging lines, and the ability to print GS1-compliant 2D barcodes, the CT1000 offers a reliable solution for manufacturers preparing for this industry-wide transition.
Ensure Proper Integration of Printing into Packaging Lines
Successful adoption of 2D barcodes depends heavily on how well your printing systems are integrated into existing packaging lines. Improper placement, misalignment, or inconsistent print quality can lead to an unreadable barcode.
Printers must be precisely positioned and synchronized with production speeds to ensure codes are applied cleanly, consistently, and in the correct location on every package. Factors like ink type, substrate compatibility, and environmental conditions (such as dust or humidity) also play a crucial role in achieving reliable barcode legibility.
Coordinate Supply Chain, ERP, and IT Systems
The move to GS1 2D barcodes requires a seamless flow of data across operations. To take full advantage of the information encoded in 2D barcodes, supply chains, ERP, and MES systems must be updated to generate, manage, and exchange expanded product data effectively, ensuring that the barcode information accurately depicts the product it's printed on.
Sunrise 2027 marks a turning point in barcode technology and supply chain efficiency. Whether you're upgrading to GS1 2D barcode printers or evaluating your packaging line, early preparation ensures compliance and long-term value. Contact our team to discuss your Sunrise 2027 readiness and explore equipment solutions tailored to your operation.
