Insights from the NZ Food and Grocery Council Conference

An array of insightful, inspirational and informative commentary was found at the annual NZ Food and Grocery Council conference held in Christchurch this November. Topics were diverse - from AI-enabled supply chains, to product recalls and digitalisation, to diversity, equity and inclusion in workplaces.

With over 250 delegates in attendance, the GS1 New Zealand team enjoyed opportunities to connect with members and brand owners. A common theme among attendees was the ongoing need to navigate strong cost pressures, but this was balanced by a clear focus on innovation and a continued evolution of product offerings for consumers.

Innovation is key to increasing sales volume

Market research firms provided updates on brands, the economy, and everything in between. One key takeaway: product innovation drives consumer engagement and purchase decisions. When brands push the envelope and introduce new features, formats, or experiences they capture attention and differentiate themselves in crowded markets.

‘Beep and scan’ is here!

We were delighted to have the opportunity to speak at the conference. GS1 New Zealand’s Chief Executive Peter Stevens presented "beep & scan" - highlighting the current global migration from linear barcodes to Next Generation GS1 QR codes. Peter encouraged brands present to be among first movers to reap the benefits of this technology for its ability to go “beep” at the checkout but also connect customers to rich product information when they ‘scan’ the product with their cellphone. To showcase this, Mānuka Collective's (headed by GS1 NZ’s Chair Sean Goodwin) first implementation of GS1 QR codes on their packaging was presented. Peter also invited brands to implement these Next Generation barcodes and announced that the MyGS1 member portal will soon be updated to help make creating their own GS1 QR Code easy.

GS1 standards can support packaging regulation

Plastic and packaging waste has long been an issue and there is growing urgency to address the issue. Phased bans on certain packaging types in New Zealand are continuing, the next being PVC and polystyrene food and drink packaging.

GS1 standards and Next Generation Barcodes can play a critical role through enabling suppliers to store and share recycling data. These data carriers can make sustainability information accessible to consumers, recyclers, and regulators.

Support is important to help small and medium suppliers get into the market

Smaller suppliers bring innovative, locally sourced products and help to diversify and strengthen customer choice. Industry-led initiatives like mentoring programmes, collaborative partnerships, and simplified onboarding processes can make a significant difference.

For the GS1 NZ team, supporting new members is crucial to ensure they are given the right information and guidance. GS1 NZ’s role of support is in the fundamentals, such as numbering and barcoding, the foundational elements to successfully navigate modern supply chains. We’ve got several support options such as phone, email, support centre guides, and interactive webinars.

We’re looking forward to the year ahead and continuing to support our members on their journey.