Sunrise 2027: The Move From Barcodes to QR Codes

What is Sunrise 2027?

Sunrise 2027 is a GS1 initiative in which retailers prepare point-of-sale scanners to read 2D codes alongside UPC and EAN barcodes by the end of 2027. GS1 US launched the target, and GS1 member organisations in other countries run their own 2D migration programmes. The name follows the “Sunrise 2005” date, when US retailers started accepting 13-digit EAN barcodes.

Why are retailers moving from barcodes to QR codes?

Retailers move to 2D codes because one QR code carries the GTIN plus batch, expiry and a product web page, while a UPC barcode carries only the GTIN. The extra data supports:

• Recall control: the till blocks a recalled batch (Application Identifier 10).
• Expiry checks: the till flags an expired product (AI 17).
• Consumer information: the shopper’s phone opens ingredients, instructions or recycling details.
• Less packaging space: one symbol replaces a barcode plus a separate marketing QR code.

What is a GS1 Digital Link QR code?

A GS1 Digital Link QR code is a QR code whose content is a web address with the GTIN and other GS1 data in a fixed path, such as https://id.gs1.org/01/09506000134352/10/ABC123. A checkout scanner reads the GTIN from the path. A phone opens the address as a web page. The table lists the main Application Identifiers.

The GS1 Digital Link QR code generator builds this path from your GTIN, batch and serial number.

Will QR codes replace barcodes completely in 2027?

No, 2027 is a scanner-readiness date, not a deadline to remove linear barcodes. Most brands print both symbols during the transition, because older tills and distribution centres still read only UPC and EAN. The linear barcode retires gradually as trading partners confirm 2D scanning.

How should brands prepare for Sunrise 2027?

Brands prepare in 5 steps, starting from the GTINs they already own.

1. Confirm a GS1 company prefix and the GTIN for every product.
2. Decide which data goes into the code: GTIN only, or GTIN plus batch, expiry or serial.
3. Choose a resolver domain: id.gs1.org or your own domain that redirects by GTIN.
4. Print the QR code at 2 cm or larger next to the existing barcode.
5. Ask retail partners to test-scan the 2D code at the till before the barcode is removed.

What is the difference between a GS1 QR code and a marketing QR code?

A GS1 QR code contains a GTIN in GS1 Digital Link syntax; a marketing QR code contains any web address. Both scan on phones, but only the GS1 version rings up at a till. The QR code vs barcode guide compares the formats in more detail.

Frequently asked questions