Tesco has made a significant change by replacing barcodes with QR codes on a selection of its own-brand products. This shift will involve using QR codes on the packaging of 13 varieties of Tesco’s own sausages, such as Tesco Pork Sausages and British Lincolnshire Sausages. QR codes offer the advantage of storing more detailed information compared to traditional barcodes, including recipes, nutritional facts, allergen details, and recycling instructions. Additionally, QR codes can be scanned from any angle using smartphones, providing added convenience to consumers.
The supermarket initially tested these new QR codes on certain fresh produce last year as part of a broader industry trend led by GS1, the global organization in charge of barcode standards. Tesco believes that adopting QR codes will enhance its product information management in stores, leading to more precise ordering and reduced waste. Furthermore, QR codes enable retailers to pinpoint specific product batches in case of a recall, eliminating the need to remove all items from shelves.
Peter Draper, Tesco’s development and change director, emphasized the benefits of transitioning to QR codes, stating that it will help decrease food wastage, enhance stock control, and introduce new digital advantages for customers. This change will allow customers to access more detailed product information simply by scanning the QR codes with their smartphones while shopping. Anne Godfrey, the CEO of GS1 UK, praised Tesco’s move to QR codes across its product range, underscoring the potential for a more connected and transparent retail future.
Ms. Godfrey also mentioned that nearly half of British retailers have upgraded their checkouts to accommodate QR codes, with brands like L’Oreal, Unilever, and Procter & Gamble already implementing them. She highlighted the shift towards a single QR code for product information, providing consumers with the detailed information they seek beyond just price details offered by traditional barcodes.
