Industry Newsroom

For UK retail and F&B businesses, the shift to GS1 Digital Link QR codes by 2027 is not optional—it's a regulatory and competitive necessity. Early adopters will gain advantages in recall management, supply chain transparency, and consumer engagement. Failing to prepare could lead to compliance issues and lost sales as retailers and regulators demand the new standard. UK businesses should start auditing their current barcode systems and planning for the transition now.

For UK small retail and food & beverage businesses that sell batteries or products containing batteries, this regulation means you need to start planning for digital product passports now. Even if you don't sell batteries directly, the same GS1 Digital Link infrastructure will be used for other product categories in the future. Preparing early can help you avoid last-minute compliance costs and ensure smooth trade with the EU. The February 2027 deadline is less than three years away, so integrating these standards into your inventory and labeling processes should be a priority.