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2D barcodes at retail point-of-sale

Use cases that include consumer engagement via mobile device

Because you’ve indicated consumer engagement is an important element of your 2D barcodes use cases, the option below enables consumers to use their smartphones to access content online and better engage with your products and brand, while also powering POS and other business processes.

barcode vs qr code

QR Code with GS1 Digital Link syntax

A QR Code with GS1 Digital Link syntax is a 2D barcode that can encode a large amount of product data, can connect consumers directly to the brand through a simple scan and which offers significant value to retailers. Today, QR Codes are currently able to be read by the vast majority of smartphones without an app.

QR Codes use data in the GS1 Digital Link URI format. These barcodes are multifunctional, they connect consumers to the website of choice for the brand, while also containing valuable information that simultaneously powers POS and many other business processes.

qr code

  • Consumer scannable with smartphone; used for consumer engagement
  • Scans at point-of-sale
  • Encodes additional data
  • Small footprint on packaging

The example barcode above encodes the following common data elements to unlock many of the 2D use cases, but can encode much more as well.

GTIN: 09521101530001

URL: https://example.com/01/09521101530001/10/ABC123?17=270104

Batch/lot number: ABC123

Expiration date: 4 January 2027

Find out more in GS1 Digital Link FAQs

Learn more about the 2D programme and guidance on getting started on your 2D journey

products on shelf

Reclaim valuable packaging space

Today many businesses use multiple barcodes on their packaging—an EAN/UPC to identify the product and a 2D barcode to provide more product information to consumers or trading partners. But 2D barcodes will be able to serve both purposes, allowing you to free up packaging space while still harnessing the benefits of increased product data.