GS1 Sunrise 2027 – The Shift to 2D Retail Barcodes
Posted by Ansutek Team on 13th Oct 2025
The global barcode system is evolving. GS1, the organisation behind the barcodes used worldwide, has announced the Sunrise 2027 initiative. By 2027, every retail point-of-sale (POS) system must be capable of reading and processing 2D barcodes (such as GS1 DataMatrix or QR Codes) in addition to traditional EAN/UPC linear barcodes.
This change has raised questions for many businesses, particularly around supply chain barcodes like GS1-128. Let’s clarify what Sunrise 2027 really means.
A Change at the Checkout – Not the Warehouse
Sunrise 2027 is primarily a retail change. Supermarkets and other retailers will upgrade their checkout scanners and software so they can read 2D barcodes on consumer products.
While a traditional 1D barcode carries just the product’s GTIN for price lookup, 2D barcodes can hold much more information, such as:
- Expiry dates and batch/lot numbers
- Serialisation for recalls and traceability
- Sustainability or recycling information
- Consumer engagement features through QR links
This will create richer consumer experiences and better product safety directly at the checkout.
GS1-128 Supply Chain Labels Remain the Same
It’s important to note that Sunrise 2027 does not replace GS1-128 barcodes.
- GS1-128 labels are designed for logistics, cartons, and pallets.
- They are scanned in the warehouse, not at retail checkout.
- Nothing changes for GS1-128 in the supply chain.
The focus of Sunrise 2027 is strictly on retail POS systems and consumer-facing packaging.
Why Sunrise 2027 Matters
- Retailers gain faster, smarter scanning at checkout.
- Consumers benefit from better product information and safety.
- Brands can share traceability, marketing, and sustainability data directly through packaging.
- Supply chain operations continue unchanged with GS1-128.
Need Help with Sunrise 2027?
At Ansutek Technologies, we specialise in barcode, scanning, and retail technology solutions. If you would like more information about Sunrise 2027, or assistance preparing your business for 2D barcode adoption, email our Ansutek Team today at sales@ansutek.co.nz