As part of an expanded pilot, Tesco is now trialling the next generation of barcodes – QR codes powered by GS1 – in a small number of selected stores, as the retail industry starts to shift towards a smarter, more connected supply chain.
The pilot replaces traditional barcodes on 12 own-brand meat and produce lines in a small number of locations across southern England. Developed in collaboration with GS1 UK and ten supplier partners, the initiative is primarily focused on capturing use-by dates and batch numbers, enabling Tesco to assess how QR codes powered by GS1 can improve date code accuracy, reduce food waste and add a further protection to help prevent the sale of out-of-date products.
Just like the original barcode which has powered the retail industry for over half a century, these next-generation QR codes powered by GS1 provide a unique digital identity for each product. In addition, they can carry significantly more information, enabling instant access to accurate, real-time data from the supply chain to the shelf.
This is the first trial of its kind and scale by a UK supermarket. This trial centres on core operational data and lays the foundation for future use cases – such as linking to allergen information, sourcing and sustainability credentials, recycling guidance and more.
“While it’s still early days, we’re already seeing the benefits of connecting our products to dynamic digital information that will help customers to know more about the products on our shelves,” said Isabela De Pedro, supply chain development and change director at Tesco.” As well as improving the customer experience and unlocking new supply chain value, we are testing how QR codes can help Tesco with issues including traceability, compliance, sustainability and shelf-edge communication.”
New research from GS1 UK reveals that the adoption of QR codes is gaining momentum across industry. Over a quarter (25%) of UK businesses are now aware of the transition to QR codes powered by GS1. 11% of GS1 UK members have already implemented the technology, with a further 33% planning to do so within the next 12 months – meaning nearly half of GS1 UK’s 60,000 strong member base could be using QR codes powered by GS1 as early as 2026.
This research also highlights how this adoption is aligned with key business priorities. 31% of members identified exploring new sales channels as a top goal, while 25% pointed to the need to comply with evolving legislation. Other top areas of focus include supply chain transparency, operational efficiency and customer engagement – all areas where QR codes are already proving invaluable.
Iain Walker, director of industry engagement at GS1 UK, said, “This trial is a clear signal that the retail industry is entering a new chapter. QR codes powered by GS1 allow brands and retailers to share richer, more trusted information – at the point of sale, at home, or anywhere in between. Tesco is helping to lead the way, demonstrating how digital product identity can unlock both commercial and consumer value.”
While this is a landmark moment for the UK, it forms part of a broader global transformation. GS1 is supporting pilots in 48 countries, covering 88% of global GDP. Major international brands and retailers including Walmart, Amazon, PepsiCo and L’Oréal are already using QR codes powered by GS1 to deliver digital transparency, supply chain resilience and regulatory readiness.
The global ambition is for all point-of-sale systems to be capable of scanning QR codes powered by GS1 by the end of 2027, in parallel with existing barcodes. “With awareness rising, implementation accelerating and the benefits increasingly evident, the shift to QR codes powered by GS1 is becoming a reality for businesses across the UK and around the world,” added Iain Walker. “We’re proud to support Tesco and our wider community in preparing for this new era of retail.”
