2D codes and GS1 Sunrise 2027: Prepare your production line for the transition
Implement DataMatrix and QR codes to meet GS1 requirements, improve traceability, and connect your products to digital data.
- Implement 2D codes in packaging and production
- Ensure GS1 Sunrise 2027 readiness
- Guarantee code quality and readability
- Integrate coding with production and IT systems
What is GS1 Sunrise 2027 and how does it affect you?
GS1 Sunrise is a global initiative by GS1 aimed at ensuring that, by the end of 2027, retailers can scan 2D codes, DataMatrix, and QR codes using the GS1 standard at the point of sale, alongside the traditional linear barcode.
This is not an immediate legal obligation, nor does it mean the EAN code will disappear overnight. It is a progressive transition: for a period, both formats will coexist, and many manufacturers are already working with dual marking (linear code + 2D code on the same packaging) while adapting their production lines.
The fundamental difference lies in the information. While the traditional barcode only identifies the product with the GTIN, a GS1 2D code stores much more data within a single symbol:
- GTIN (product identification).
- Batch number and expiration date.
- Serial number.
- Variable data and traceability.
- Digital link to extended information for the consumer.
That is why this change does not only affect packaging design. It affects how you code, verify, and manage on the factory floor. And that is where the real challenge lies.
The keys to 2D coding in one guide
We have gathered our expertise into an exclusive technical guide so you can plan your packaging adaption step by step, avoiding mistakes and enrusing the continuity of your production.
In this document, you will find the keys to choosing the right marking technology and the requirements of the GS1 standard.
The challenge is not the code, it is producing efficiently
The most common mistake when approaching GS1 Sunrise 2027 is thinking that simply adding a QR or DataMatrix code to the packaging is enough. It is not. The challenge is ensuring that the code is printed correctly, contains reliable data, remains legible, and is verified in-line, without affecting your productivity.
True preparation requires reviewing four key areas:
- Coding technology: Not all systems can print high-quality 2D codes consistently at industrial speeds. The technology (laser, inkjet, UV) determines the contrast, precision, and consistency of each code.
- Data management: A 2D code is only as reliable as the data it contains. The production line must generate, integrate, and manage variable information without errors.
- Verification and scanning: Printing is not enough. You must verify that each code complies with GS1 quality parameters to ensure it scans correctly in production, logistics, and retail, thus avoiding supply chain rejections.
- Integration and traceability: The value of 2D codes is unlocked when the code stops being just a printed mark and connects with your product traceability, control, and management systems.
A comprehensive solution for your 2D transition
At Macsa, we approach GS1 Sunrise 2027 from an industrial perspective, not a theoretical one. We analyze your line, your materials, and your traceability requirements to implement DataMatrix or QR codes that work in your actual production environment.
We support you throughout the entire process with a single system:
- Marking hardware tailored to your material and speed: laser, inkjet (CIJ), and UV.
- Machine vision verification to ensure the quality of every code in-line.
- Integra Software to manage variable data, serialization, and traceability.
- Service and support to ensure a scalable transition with zero downtime.
It is not just about printing a code. It is about making that code legible, reliable, and useful throughout your entire value chain.
Frequently asked questions about 2D coding
What is GS1 Sunrise 2027?
It is a global initiavtive be GS1 aimed at ensuring that, by the end of 2027, retailers can scan 2D codes (DataMatrix and QR codes using de GS1 standard) at the point of sale, alongside the traditional linear barcode. It is not an immiediate legal obligation, but rather a progressive transition twoard a more connected identification system that provides more information within a single code.
What is the difference between a 2D code and a traditional barcode?
A linear barcode typically only identifies the product using the GTIN. A GS1 2D code stores much more information in less space: GTIN, batch number, expiration date, serial number, variable data, and a digital link to extended content. It allows for the individual identification of each item and connects the packaging with traceability systems.
Is it mandatory to implement 2D codes before 2027?
There is no legal obligation to replace the EAN code overnight. GS1 Sunrise 2027 proposes a progressive transition where both formats will coexist. Many manufacturers are adopting a dual marking strategy (linear code + 2D codi on the same packaging) while adapting their production lines.
What is GS1 Digital Link?
It is the standard that allows a 2D code to function as a link to digital information. The exact same code can identify the product at the point of sale, provide logistical traceability, and simultaneously connect the consumer with extended content (origin, instructions, authentication), all from a single symbol.
What marking technologies allow for high-quality 2D code printing?
The main technologies are laser, inkjet (CIJ), and UV systems. The coice depends on the packaging material, line speed, and the required level of contrast. Not all systems can print stable 2D codes at industrial speeds, which is why it is advisable to analyze each production line before making a decision.
How does this change affect my production line?
The real challenge is not adding a symbol to the packaging, but producing it efficiently. It requires reviewing four areas: coding technology, variable data management, in-line code quality verification, and integration with traceability and production systems.
Why is it so important to verify 2D code quality?
Because a poorly printed or unreadable code can lead to rejections in the distribution chain and at the point of sale. In-line verification (using machine vision) ensures that every code complies with GS1 quality parameters and can be scanned correctly in production, logistics, and retail.
Do I need to replace all my machinery to adapt?
Not necessarily. It depends on the current state of your line, the materials used, and your traceability requirements. We recommend a preliminary analysis to determine whichh equipment can be adapted and where it is best to incorporate new technology, thereby avoiding unnecessary investments.
How much time do I need to prepare my production?
It depends on the complexity of the line and your starting point, but it is best not to wait until 2027. The adaption process involves coding tests, verification, and data integration. Starting early allows for a smooth transition with zero downtime or operational impact.
How can Macsa help me in the transition to 2D codes?
At Macsa, we support you throughout the entire process from an industrial perspective: we analyze your line, select the appropriate coding technology (laser, inkjet, UV), verify code quality, and integrate the data with your traceability software. We approach GS1 Sunrise 2027 not just as a symbol change, but as an opportunity for more connected and traceable production lines.
Talk to an expert in 2D coding
We analyze your production and help you implement 2D codes efficiently, complying with GS1 standards and without affecting your productivity.
Why 2D codes are becoming the new standard?
2D codes such as DataMatrix and QR are replacing traditional barcodes because they enable higher data capacity, unit-level traceability, and direct connection between products and digital information.
This shift is driven by GS1 Sunrise 2027 and increasing requirements across retail, logistics, and manufacturing.
Industrial 2D codes enable:
- Product identification and traceability.
- Batch and expiry management.
- Serialization and track & trace systems.
- Connection to digital product information.
- Supply chain visibility.
- Regulatory and retailer requirements.
- Packaging digitalization strategies.
What it means for production
Moving to 2D codes is not just a packaging change. It directly impacts how your production line operates.
You need to ensure:
- Consistent code quality at production speed
- Correct data structure and serialization
- Integration with ERP, MES, and traceability systems
- Reliable readability across the supply chain
Transition from 1D to 2D barcodes in packaging
For decades, linear barcodes such as EAN and UPC have been used to identify products. These codes only contain a product identifier and very limited information.
2D codes represent the next step in product identification because they can store significantly more information or link products to structured digital data. This makes 2D codes particularly suitable for traceability, serialization, supply chain visibility and digital product information.
During the transition period, most manufacturers will implement dual marking, where both the traditional linear barcode and the 2D code appear on the packaging. This ensures compatibility with existing retail and logistics systems.
This transition requires coordination between packaging design, production lines, marking technologies, vision systems and data management systems. Companies that start planning the transition early will reduce implementation risks, avoid packaging redesign issues and ensure production continuity.
Traditional 1D barcodes
Linear barcodes store a product identifier that must be linked to a database to access product information. They are widely used in retail and logistics but have limited data capacity.
2D codes (DataMatrix and QR)
2D codes can store more information in a smaller space or link directly to digital product data. They are used for traceability, serialization, regulatory compliance and digital product information.
Are you ready for the 2D migration transition?
Manufacturers must evaluate packaging, production lines and traceability systems before implementing industrial 2D codes.
Our specialists can help assess the best approach for your production environment and define a 2D migration roadmap adapted to your packaging materials, production speeds and traceability requirements.
Frequently asked questions about industrial 2D codes
What are industrial 2D codes?
Industrial 2D codes are machine-readable symbols capable of storing significantly more information than traditional linear barcodes.
They are widely used in manufacturing environments for product identification, traceability and regulatory compliance.
What is GS1 Sunrise 2027?
GS1 Sunrise 2027 is a global initiative requiring retail systems to support scanning of 2D barcodes alongside traditional linear barcodes at the point of sale.
This initiative will accelerate the adoption of DataMatrix and QR codes across multiple industries.
Can 2D codes replace traditional barcodes?
2D codes are expected to progressively replace traditional barcodes in many industries, but the transition will be gradual. During this period, most manufacturers will use both linear barcodes and 2D codes on packaging to ensure compatibility with retail and logistics systems.
What 2D code is used for industrial traceability?
GS1 DataMatrix is the most commonly used 2D code for industrial traceability.
Its compact structure allows large amounts of data to be encoded in a very small space while remaining highly reliable for industrial scanning systems.
How will the transition to 2D codes impact your production lines?
It affects production lines, traceability systems, data management and product identification.
Defining the right migration strategy is key to ensuring compliance, production continuity and code quality.
The migration to 2D codes requires evaluating packaging materials, available printing areas, production speeds, marking technologies, vision systems and traceability software. Companies must ensure that codes can be printed, verified and read throughout the entire supply chain.
In many cases, the transition will require dual marking (1D and 2D codes), packaging redesign, new data structures and integration with serialization or track & trace systems. Planning this transition early helps reduce implementation risks and avoids production disruptions.
A successful 2D migration project involves packaging, production, IT, quality and supply chain teams. The transition to 2D codes is not just about adding a new code — it is about connecting products with data and making packaging part of the digital supply chain.
Ready to move to 2D codes?
The transition is already happening across industries.
The challenge is not whether to adopt 2D codes, but how to implement them correctly in production.
Companies that act early reduce risk, ensure compliance, and gain operational advantage.
We help you make that transition with minimal disruption.