The Co-Founder of Buyerdock, the first digital product passport, explains the upcoming shift to 2D QR codes for Foods Connected and why food and drink businesses need to act now to avoid falling behind.
The food industry is undergoing a digital transformation. As supply chains grow more complex and retailers demand richer product data, transparency has become essential. At Buyerdock, we understand these challenges, and in partnership with Foods Connected, we’re helping suppliers and retailers prepare for GS1’s upcoming Sunrise 2027 initiative.
Traceability is still inconsistent across the industry. Many businesses rely on spreadsheets, PDFs and legacy systems, creating data silos and errors. This can lead to:
For brands looking to stay competitive, it’s clear that a standardised, digital approach is essential.
GS1 Sunrise represents the shift to 2D barcodes with a GS1 Digital Link, carrying much more information than traditional linear barcodes. These codes can hold:
The initiative is already being trialled by leading retailers. Tesco has begun trials of GS1 QR codes on select meat and produce lines. Globally, companies such as Procter & Gamble, Carrefour and Alibaba have endorsed the transition to standardised 2D codes by 2027 (GS1).
The traditional barcode is limited: it identifies a product but cannot communicate batch-level or provenance information, allergens or sustainability data. GS1 Sunrise solves this by providing:
Retailers are starting to require this level of data and brands that are unprepared risk delays in onboarding or even exclusion.
This is where our partnership with Foods Connected adds value. Together, we offer a complete solution to manage structured data, traceability, compliance, and digital supply chain transparency.
Buyerdock ensures accurate, GS1-aligned product data that can flow seamlessly through to GS1 Digital Link QR codes. While Foods Connected provides visibility, risk management, and supplier compliance tools.
Together, the platforms enable brands to integrate future-proof QR codes, manage sustainability and compliance data, fully traceable supply chains and leverage every product as a consumer engagement channel that supports storytelling, marketing, and sales growth.
The Buyerdock GS1 QR codes are not just about compliance — they create a new sales and marketing channel directly on your packaging. Brands can use the code to engage consumers in ways that were previously impossible:
By turning every product into a digital touchpoint, brands can build trust, drive engagement, and even increase revenue — all while meeting retailer and regulatory expectations.
GS1 Sunrise is accelerating and retailers are already preparing. Brands that act now can reduce risk, streamline onboarding, and meet both retailer and consumer expectations. Buyerdock, in partnership with Foods Connected, is ready to help your business be ready for Sunrise — transforming compliance into opportunity and turning QR codes into a new growth channel.