In 1974, the first EAN barcode was scanned at a supermarket checkout. This event signaled the start of the digitization of numerous retail and supply chain processes.

Today, we are in the midst of transitioning from the well-established 1D barcode to the 2D barcode. While 1D barcodes only contain the EAN (GTIN) and are used exclusively for product identification, 2D barcodes can integrate additional information as attributes.

When these attributes are embedded in a QR code as a GS1 Digital Link, each product receives a digital twin displaying all relevant product information. Scanning the QR code with a smartphone opens the GS1 Digital Link landing page and provides information about the product, legally required information, and services.

Note that all product information used to date, such as the GTIN and other characteristics, remains valid. The major benefit of the GS1 Digital Link is its ability to link to various services and offer information on traceability, product authentication, and marketing campaigns, all through a single code!

Currently, legal requirements mean that a lot of different information has to be printed on the packaging, which detracts from brand perception and restricts product design.

When you scan a QR code with an integrated GS1 Digital Link, you should be directed to web pages containing product-specific information. This means that only one code on the packaging is needed to access all relevant product information.

SecIdent is the ideal, proven foundation for implementing the new GS1 Digital Link concept. As a serialization system, SecIdent assigns a unique serial code to each product. This unique identifier enables manufacturers to provide additional information.

• Cross-selling offers, i.e., matching additional products

• Further product information, such as ingredients, nutritional values, or recipes

• Registration for warranty offers

• Product information

• Instructions

• Loyalty and loyalty programs

• Traceability

• Product registrations

This builds customer trust and ensures a positive perception of the brand through the product experience. SecIdent allows different content to be displayed based on the device that calls up the code and offers the option of defining test groups. This ensures that logistics partners, retailers, and end customers receive the information that is relevant to them. Additionally, manufacturers receive valuable data on demand, which they can use to better determine future batch sizes and trends.