News

Retailers Getting Ready For GS1 DATABAR
16 November 2008

Australia’s major retailers are upgrading checkout barcode scanners so they can read barcodes with product specific information such as use-by dates. The information will be contained in new barcodes which are set to become a standard by 2010.

These GS1 Barcodes, known as GS1 DataBar are being introduced to offer greater traceability within the supply chain, and they do this by enabling small or awkwardly shaped items to be barcoded for the first time, as well as allowing for extra traceability information on retail trade items. Their arrival in 2010 should mean an end to inaccurate manual key entry and the ability to manage short shelf-life products more effectively.

Pilots using GS1 DataBar are taking place globally, with major retailers such as Tesco, Loblaw’s and Wal-Mart, using these barcodes on loose produce. One of the advantages offered by these barcodes is the ability to use global trade item numbers (GTINs) rather than local generic codes on produce, which means simpler labeling procedures for growers supplying retailers in several different countries.

Initially the barcodes will be used for fresh produce and pharmaceuticals and GS1 is running a DataBar 2010 program to create understanding and effective use of the barcodes at the retail point of sale from 1 January 2010.

As part of this GS1 Australia has a DataBar starter kit for retailers which includes a test card of all GS1 DataBar options and advice about how to test scanning equipment. At this stage it is important for retailers to carry out a survey of all their scanning equipment in consultation with their equipment suppliers so that plans for any upgrading can be scheduled over the next few years.

5 KEY ADVANTAGES OF GS1 DATABAR:

1. Small products will be able to carry barcodes.

2. Retail POS Systems will be able to track products freshness.

3. Consumers will be protected from out of date stock.

4. International standardisation of barcoding systems.

5. Simplified warehousing and logistics.

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