Barcodes to be Replaced by QR Codes

Barcodes, an integral part of retail for over 50 years, are set to be replaced by QR codes that can store significantly more information, including product details and expiration dates. The transition is being led by GS1, an international organization overseeing barcode standards, which anticipates that by the end of 2027, all retailers will be able to read these new codes. The shift is partly attributed to changing consumer demands for more information and was accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which popularized QR codes for menu access. While traditional barcodes only relay basic information like price and product name, the new QR codes will allow consumers to access comprehensive details, enhancing their shopping experience. This evolution reflects a broader trend of increasing digital interaction in retail, but it also raises concerns about the potential environmental impact due to increased data storage needs. The first barcode was scanned in 1974, marking the beginning of a technology that reshaped retail operations worldwide.