There are silent forces that underpin the foundations of our civilisation.
They form the backbone of every thriving society.
They are the codes we live by.
Codes that shape how we measure, communicate, and trade.
Without these so-called standards, our complex societies simply couldn’t function.
Without them, we descend into chaos.
Mistakes multiply.
Costs rise.
And our world becomes less connected.
Over 50 years ago, a fundamental standard was born:
The barcode.
The universal standard for identifying products.
It began with a simple goal—streamlining the checkout process in supermarkets.
In time, it proved to be just the beginning.
Eventually, it would evolve into a QR code, unlocking a world of limitless potential.
It was then that a new organisation came to life:
GS1
A global, not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the sharing of product data.
A neutral and trailblazing leader in its field.
Dedicated to her members:
from hospitals to retailers, and food producers to fashion brands.
Driven by a bold ambition:
To make trusted data about every product available through a single scan—so that anyone, anywhere, can make informed choices.
Because GS1 believes that accessible, shareable data is essential
for the positive change our world urgently needs.
From better patient care and improved customer experiences to a truly circular economy.
That’s why the people at GS1 work every day with members and partners
to advance the universal system for product identification and data sharing.
A system that links physical products to digital information.
Where limited label space is no longer an issue.
Ensuring the right product reaches the right place at the right time—smoothly and reliably.
Where every product can be traced from raw material to end of life.
The result? Efficient, reliable, and more sustainable supply chains.
And let’s not forget the entrepreneurs—ready to meet the demands of today and tomorrow, and continue building their businesses with confidence.
GS1