Consumers can discern between QR Codes with new GS1 Wordmark
The increase in QR Codes on products can make it challenging for a consumer to know which QR Code is powered by GS1 standards and will scan at point of sale. As businesses transition to having next generation barcodes on pack next to linear barcodes, it is becoming important to be able to differentiate between regular QR codes and QR codes which will scan at a retailer's checkout. GS1 is implementing a GS1 Wordmark (a trademark with the word ‘GS1’ adjacent to the QR code) and GS1 New Zealand members can now opt to use the wordmark on graphics downloaded in the MyGS1 member portal.
Introducing the new GS1 wordmark
You can now add the GS1 wordmark to QR codes powered by GS1 that you download from the MyGS1 portal. This signals to your customers that your QR code is smart-phone ready and will scan at the point of sale if a retailer is next generation barcodes. Think of this as future proofing your products – getting ready for the global transition to QR codes powered by GS1 at point of sale.
If you are a GS1 New Zealand member you will see a one-time pop up in MyGS1 explaining what these changes are:
Recent brands implementing QR Codes powered by GS1
Every day, Kiwi brands are adding QR Codes powered by GS1 to their products by downloading these next generation barcodes from MyGS1. Here’s what they’re saying: 
“I was excited to have a look at what was going to be the future. It was extremely easy, click a few buttons, and I got an output I can use instantly.”
Steven Irvine, Aqualine
“GS1 New Zealand were instrumental in helping us start the journey to QR Codes powered by GS1 in the right way so we can take our products to the world.”
Sean Goodwin, The Mānuka Collective
How to prepare for QR Codes powered by GS1
Retailers, brand owners, and manufacturers are transitioning to scanning QR Codes powered by GS1 at retail points of sale by the end of 2027. In preparation for this, Kiwi businesses are implementing QR Codes powered by GS1 standards on products right now. QR Codes powered by GS1 are different from regular QR codes in that they are scannable by a consumer but can also be scanned at point of sale just like a traditional linear barcode.
When a QR Code is powered by GS1 standards, the barcode number (Global Trade Item Number, or ‘GTIN’) is embedded in the QR code powered by GS1. If creating great brand experiences for consumers is what you are seeking, then you can go right ahead and download QR Codes powered by GS1 from the GS1 New Zealand member portal ‘MyGS1’. If you are looking to embed dynamic data such as best before date, expiry dates or more, then you will need to work with our team or a provider to support you with this. Our next generation barcodes lead Klaeri Schelhowe is a global expert in identification and can step you through the process, or we have several solution providers we can point you to.