Abstract

2D barcodes, such as QR codes and data matrix codes are widely used by brand owners for encoding information in an easy-to-use machine-readable format. These barcodes allow more data storage than traditional 1D barcodes and the global supply chain is moving that way. GS1, the barcode standards development organization, worked with the global industry to set the end of 2027 to transition from 1D to 2D barcode at point-of-sale (POS) or point-of-care (POC).



The move from 1D to 2D barcodes affects digital, offset, and packaging printing companies. All retail products will soon have a 2D barcode that contains a great deal of information. This study addresses issues related to the amount of data encoded, its resulting physical dimensions, and the smallest size that can be printed to allow consumers to decode the barcode.