The rise of QR codes: a new era for shopping technology

A significant shift in shopping technology is on the horizon as experts predict the replacement of traditional barcodes with QR codes in supermarkets across the UK. This transition, heralded as a necessary upgrade for retailers, is expected to reshape shopping experiences and drive improvements in operational efficiencies.

Anne Godfrey, the chief executive of GS1 UK, an international non-profit organisation responsible for barcodes, indicated that nearly half of British retailers have already modernised their till systems to handle the new QR codes. Speaking to The Sun, Godfrey noted that the Covid pandemic accelerated the adoption of QR codes, as consumers became accustomed to using them in hospitality settings for accessing menus and information. “Very soon we will say goodbye to the old-fashioned barcode, and every product will just have one QR code that holds all the information you need,” she stated.

The current barcode system, which has been a staple in retail for over 50 years, typically contains seven pieces of basic information such as product name, manufacturer, and price. In contrast, QR codes can store much more detailed data, allowing customers to access extensive product information including ingredients, allergens, and even recipe suggestions. Godfrey explains that modern consumers demand “much more” from their shopping experiences than what traditional barcodes offer.

This transition is not merely a cosmetic change; it is part of a broader technological evolution within the retail sector. According to a study commissioned by GS1, 96% of leading UK retail executives anticipate another wave of technological transformation in the industry, suggesting that failure to adapt could result in companies being left behind. Presently, 46% of retailers have implemented QR code technology at their checkouts, with an additional 52% planning to do so within the upcoming year.

The move towards QR codes is already underway in various locations, including tests at major supermarket chains like Morrisons. Notable global brands such as PepsiCo, Procter & Gamble, L’Oréal, Amazon, and Walmart are also integrating these codes into their systems, with a complete international rollout expected by 2027. This marks a significant evolution in retail operations, as the QR code system is anticipated to enhance customer engagement and streamline processes.

Godfrey described the invention of the barcode as one of the “great, untold stories” of the modern world, stating that it is used more frequently than Google in daily transactions. However, she acknowledged the impending obsolescence of this technology, saying, “We won’t celebrate the death of the humble barcode, but it is time to say a long goodbye to it.”

As businesses continue to explore and implement AI and automation technologies alongside these advancements, the coming years will likely witness a transformation in not only how consumers interact with products but also how retailers manage operations, ultimately driving growth and innovation in the industry.

Source: Noah Wire Services