Australian Retailers Urged to Upgrade POS Hardware Ahead of 2D Barcode Standards
Australian retailers are being urged to prepare their point-of-sale (POS) infrastructure for the transition to 2D barcodes, which will carry significantly more data than traditional linear barcodes. The call comes from GS1 Australia, the organisation overseeing barcode standards in the country, as part of a global push toward the GS1 Digital Link standard, which is expected to become the norm by 2027.
2D barcodes, such as QR codes, can encode vast amounts of information, including batch numbers, expiry dates, and serial numbers, all within a single scannable code. This enables enhanced traceability, improved consumer engagement, and more efficient recalls. However, to fully leverage these benefits, retailers must ensure their scanning hardware and software are capable of reading 2D codes at the checkout.
According to industry experts, many existing POS systems in Australia are only equipped to handle traditional 1D barcodes. Upgrading to 2D-capable scanners is not just a technological necessity but a strategic imperative. Retailers that fail to adapt risk being left behind as suppliers begin to adopt 2D barcodes on packaging.
GS1 Australia has been actively engaging with retailers, wholesalers, and technology providers to facilitate a smooth transition. The organisation emphasises that early preparation is key to avoiding disruption at the point of sale. Retailers are encouraged to audit their current hardware, consult with their technology vendors, and plan for phased upgrades.
The move aligns with global initiatives, including those in Europe and North America, where major retailers have already begun trialling 2D barcodes. In Australia, the grocery sector is expected to be an early adopter, with several major chains piloting the technology.
While the full transition to 2D barcodes is not yet mandatory, the industry is moving rapidly. Retailers that invest now will be better positioned to meet consumer expectations for transparency and to comply with future regulatory requirements. The message is clear: the time to act is now.
Why this matters for your business:
For Australian brand owners, food and beverage manufacturers, and retailers, the shift to 2D barcodes represents a significant operational change. Retailers that do not upgrade their POS systems may face scanning failures as suppliers begin to adopt 2D codes, leading to checkout delays and customer frustration. Early adoption allows businesses to leverage enhanced data capabilities for better inventory management, product traceability, and consumer engagement. Additionally, being ahead of the curve can provide a competitive advantage as the industry standardises on GS1 Digital Link. Ultimately, proactive investment in 2D-ready infrastructure will ensure seamless operations and future-proof business processes.