New, Smaller Bar Code Carries More Data; Second Time in GS1 History a Bar Code is Approved for Global Trade Item Identification

GS1 has announced a global sunrise date of Jan 1, 2010 for a new bar code called GS1 DataBar, previously known as Reduced Space Symbology (RSS). This marks the first time since the EAN/UPC bar code was adopted that GS1 has endorsed a bar code for global, open (unrestricted) trade item identification.

While EAN/UPC will remain useful for product identification, GS1 DataBar enables expanded bar code implementation by meeting the objective of identifying small items and carrying more information than the current EAN/UPC bar code. With its smaller size, GS1 DataBar will enable GTIN identification for hard-to-mark products like fresh foods increasing shrink reduction and category management. GS1 DataBar™ symbols can identify small items and carry more information than the current EAN/UPC bar code. GS1 DataBar will enable GTIN identification for hard-to-mark products like fresh foods and can carry GS1 Application Identifiers such as serial numbers, lot numbers, and expiration dates, which creates the opportunity for solutions supporting product authentication and traceability, product quality and effectiveness, variable measure product identification, and coupons.

EAN/UPC will continue to be used for the foreseeable future as the decision to adopt GS1 DataBar for existing applications will be made by brand owners on a needs basis.

The adoption date of 2010 sets the goal for bar code systems to be capable of scanning GS1 DataBar bar codes and processing GS1 Application Identifiers. Separate dates will be set for the use of the additional data for new application areas by global standards work groups. Initial priorities were established for identification of fresh food, variable measure, and pharmaceutical products sold at retail. In addition, research areas will be supported such as boosting GS1’s variable bar code printing technology knowledge and expert network.

“GS1 DataBar is a natural complement to the GS1 System and sends a clear signal for scanner implementation worldwide” said Miguel Lopera, President and CEO, GS1. “GS1 DataBar, like EPC, can carry GS1 Application Identifiers and provide GS1 with options to deliver integrated benefits based on what is needed.”

Key Concepts

• GS1 DataBar symbols were endorsed and adopted by GS1 after a compelling business case review by a global task force comprising retailers, fast moving consumer goods manufacturers, pharmaceutical companies, GS1 Member Organizations (MOs), and trade associations.
• GS1 DataBar symbols and GS1 Application Identifiers will be available in all trade item scanning systems beginning January 1, 2010.
• GS1 DataBar symbols will not necessarily replace EAN/UCC bar codes, as it will be left to the brand owner (the party responsible for specifying package design) to decide.
• GS1 DataBar and EPC make a new horizon of product information visible in the supply chain for increased collaboration between trading partners. GS1 DataBar provides a good migration path to EPC in the near future. The two technologies complement each other.

For more information contact Karen Feiling on 011 7895777