From Barcodes to Smart Codes: GS1’s Vision for a Connected Future

In the 11th episode of CoCo: click.consume.connect - the connected consumers podcast, we sit down with Camilla Young, Programme Lead for the Next Generation of Barcodes at GS1 UK. Camilla shares GS1’s ambitious strategy to transition from traditional barcodes to 2D smart codes powered by the GS1 Digital Link Standard as part of the Sunrise 2027 initiative. We explore how this shift will revolutionize traceability, support regulatory compliance—like the Digital Product Passport (DPP)—and empower businesses to engage connected consumers with richer product information. From challenges in adoption to GS1’s solutions and industry collaborations, this episode offers a deep dive into how GS1 is driving the future of connected packaging and smarter supply chains. Tune in to discover how GS1 is connecting products, businesses, and consumers in ways never seen before!