Prepare Your Business for the Future of Retail Barcodes
The retail industry is undergoing one of the largest changes to product identification since the introduction of the UPC barcode. As retailers transition toward next-generation 2D barcodes, businesses need to evaluate how their products, labeling systems, software, and production processes will adapt.
IBC International Bar Coding Systems helps manufacturers prepare for GS1 Sunrise 2027 by providing implementation consulting, barcode strategy, labeling assessments, and technology solutions designed to make the transition seamless.
Whether you are a food producer, beverage manufacturer, winery, brewery, consumer packaged goods company, or industrial manufacturer, our team can help you understand what changes are required and build a practical roadmap for implementation.
What is GS1 Sunrise 2027?
GS1 Sunrise 2027 is an industry initiative focused on enabling retail point-of-sale systems to process next-generation 2D barcodes, such as GS1 DataMatrix and GS1 Digital Link-enabled QR codes, alongside traditional linear barcodes. These new barcode formats allow brands to connect products with additional information including batch numbers, lot codes, expiration dates, traceability information, and digital product content.
The transition creates new opportunities for manufacturers to improve:
- Product traceability
- Recall management
- Inventory accuracy
- Consumer engagement
- Supply chain visibility
- Sustainability initiatives
However, successful implementation requires more than simply printing a new barcode. Companies need to evaluate their entire workflow—from product data and labeling software to printers, scanners, ERP integrations, and production processes.
How IBC Helps With GS1 Sunrise 2027 Implementation
1. Current State Assessment
We begin by reviewing your existing labeling and barcode environment, including:
- Current UPC/EAN barcode usage
- Product identification processes
- Label artwork and printing workflows
- Label software capabilities
- Printer and scanner compatibility
- ERP, WMS, and production system integrations
- Existing traceability requirements
Our goal is to identify potential gaps before they become production issues.
2. GS1 Barcode Strategy & Planning
Every company’s requirements are different. We help determine the right approach for your products, including:
- GS1 DataMatrix implementation considerations
- GS1 Digital Link opportunities
- 2D barcode placement and label design requirements
- Data requirements and application identifiers
- Dual barcode strategies during transition periods
- Retailer-specific requirements
We help you develop a realistic migration plan that supports your customers today while preparing for future requirements.
3. Label Design & Print System Evaluation
Moving to 2D barcodes may require changes to existing labels, artwork, and printing systems.
IBC can review:
- Label sizes and available space
- Barcode readability requirements
- Print resolution requirements
- Thermal-transfer and direct-thermal printing capabilities
- Print-and-apply automation opportunities
- Label verification requirements
We can help ensure your labels are designed to scan reliably throughout the supply chain.
4. Hardware & Software Readiness
Your barcode strategy is only as strong as the systems supporting it.
IBC can help evaluate and implement:
Printing Solutions
- Industrial thermal-transfer printers
- Print-and-apply labeling systems
- High-resolution barcode printing solutions
Scanning Solutions
- 1D/2D barcode scanners
- Mobile computers
- Production scanning systems
- Inventory tracking solutions
Software Solutions
- Label design software
- Database-driven printing
- Variable data printing workflows
- ERP and production system integration
Industries We Support
IBC has decades of experience helping companies improve labeling, traceability, and automation processes across:
Food & Beverage
Consumer Packaged Goods
Manufacturing & Distribution
Why Work With IBC?
Real-World Manufacturing Experience
IBC is not just a barcode consultant—we are a labeling and automation company that works directly with production environments every day.
We understand the challenges companies face when implementing new technology:
- Keeping production running
- Reducing manual processes
- Maintaining retailer compliance
- Training employees
- Integrating new systems without disrupting operations
Complete Implementation Support
Unlike consultants who provide recommendations and leave implementation to someone else, IBC can support the complete process:
✓ Assessment
✓ Barcode strategy
✓ Label design review
✓ Equipment recommendations
✓ Software solutions
✓ Installation
✓ Training
✓ Ongoing support
Is Your Company Ready for GS1 Sunrise 2027?
Now is the time to evaluate your barcode and labeling infrastructure.
Waiting until retailers begin enforcing new requirements can create unnecessary pressure on production teams, packaging suppliers, and IT departments.
IBC can help you understand:
- What changes apply to your business
- What equipment upgrades may be required
- Whether your current labels and systems are ready
- How to transition with minimal disruption
Learn More
GS1 Sunrise 2027 Is Fast Approaching: Is Your Business Ready for 2D Barcodes?
GS1 Sunrise 2027: What It Means for You