Barcodes are on the verge of becoming obsolete in UK stores within the next five years, as top retailers such as Morrisons, Amazon, and Walmart are exploring new cutting-edge technology to revolutionize the shopping experience. According to a recent report commissioned by GS1 UK, retail experts predict that the traditional barcode will be replaced by smart QR codes, enabling products to communicate vital information directly to consumers.
Kate Hardcastle, a retail strategist, highlighted the importance of adopting new technology to regain consumer trust and enhance transparency in the retail sector. Smart QR codes will not only provide quick access to comprehensive product information but will also streamline the checkout process with a simple scan. Leading brands like PepsiCo, Walmart, P&G, Loreal, and Amazon have already embraced this new technology, with Morrisons actively testing its potential benefits.
The shift from linear barcodes to advanced QR codes is gaining momentum globally, with product testing currently underway in 48 countries. Major brands and retailers are on track to implement smart QR codes on a large scale by 2027, offering consumers a wealth of real-time data on various aspects of the products they purchase. From details on a product’s origins and environmental impact to potential allergens or ethical sourcing practices, QR codes aim to empower consumers with informed choices.
Executives in the retail industry foresee significant changes in consumer engagement by 2030, with easy access to product information emerging as a key priority. Nearly half of the companies surveyed in the report have already started integrating QR capabilities, with over half planning to do so within the next two years. Retail strategist Kate Hardcastle emphasized the competitive advantage of providing transparent and accessible product information, catering to the evolving demands of today’s discerning consumers.
Anne Godfrey, CEO of GS1 UK, emphasized the transformative potential of QR codes in connecting physical products to the digital sphere, empowering businesses to meet the rising demands for detailed product information. The evolution of barcode technology, now facilitated through QR codes powered by GS1, heralds a new era of consumer empowerment and enhanced retail experiences. This shift towards greater transparency and data-driven decision-making is expected to reshape the retail landscape in the coming years.
As the retail industry continues to evolve, consumers can look forward to a more informative and engaging shopping experience, driven by the seamless integration of smart QR codes. With leading retailers and brands spearheading this technological revolution, the future of shopping promises greater transparency, sustainability, and consumer empowerment. Stay tuned as UK stores prepare to bid farewell to traditional barcodes and usher in a new era of innovation and consumer-centric retail practices.