GS1 Digital Link QR Codes – Next-Generation Barcodes for Retail Compliance

Robotics
Written By Jake Norman

Ensure you’re audit ready with automated quality from OAL

Results

OAL Connected is our proven factory software platform for packaging verification, label compliance and line automation.

OAL Connected helps manufacturers:

  • Create, print and verify GS1 Digital Link QR codes inline with speed and accuracy

  • Comply with emerging retailer mandates like Tesco’s trials of 2D barcodes

  • Enable richer on-pack information, including expiry, batch, origin, allergens and more

  • Support environmental goals by reducing food waste through better traceability

  • Retain current line efficiency without needing new hardware in most cases

Challenge

Major UK retailers are beginning to trial next-generation barcodes that combine traditional supply chain identifiers with consumer-facing data in a single, scannable 2D code. Manufacturers face pressure to:

  • Replace legacy 1D barcodes with GS1-compliant QR codes

  • Ensure QR codes carry accurate, encoded product data

  • Print and verify QR codes in-line at speed

  • Stay ahead of global and retailer-led mandates for packaging compliance

Solution

OAL Connected enables you to meet this new standard with a fully integrated solution to:

✔ Generate GS1 Digital Link QR Codes

  • Encode data like GTIN, expiry date, batch and serial numbers in a compliant format

✔ Print In-line with Confidence

  • Connect directly to existing printers to place QR codes on pack during production

  • Automatically prints QR codes with embedded GTIN, expiry, batch etc.

✔ Verify Every Code

  • Real-time camera systems confirm structure, accuracy, and readability on every product

  • Every code, every pack, stored and traceable

✔ Support Dual-Purpose Scanning

  • Fulfil both supply chain and shopper engagement requirements in a single code

OAL is proud to be the first GS1 UK-approved verification partner for Digital Link barcodes.

Customer Example

Manufacturer – 2025 Pilot

  • Objective: Meet retailer QR trial requirements and reduce waste

  • Solution: OAL deployed a system enabling QR code printing and verification compliant with GS1

  • Outcome: Reduced label errors, improved traceability, and demonstrated retailer compliance with live line tests

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Not necessarily. Most thermal transfer or laser coders can be configured to print 2D or QR codes. The primary area to consider is print size, how big the QR code you're printing is.

  • You’ll receive hands-on training for your team tailored to your QA, operations and engineering roles. After that, our UK-based support team is available 24/7 to answer questions, provide updates or help you get the most from your system. You’ll also have access to digital guides, troubleshooting tools and optional annual audits to keep your setup compliant and optimised.

Let’s Make Compliance Easy

Let’s walk through how you can start using QR codes with GS1 Digital Link. Book a consultation:

Why leading food manufacturers trust OAL?

Your partner in compliance, efficiency and growth.

“Without a doubt I would recommend OAL to other manufacturers […] this system is the failsafe.”
— Sarah McGeehan, Group Technical Manager, Life Health Foods (M&S Supplier)

Trusted by:

Jake Norman
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