GS1 UK targets SMEs and challenger brands as it takes wraps off new self-serve QR code creation tool
GS1 UK has launched a new self-serve next-generation QR code creation tool. This, it says, will make it easier for brands to prepare for the transition to the next generation of barcodes, following Tesco becoming the first UK supermarket to transition an entire product range to QR codes powered by GS1 earlier this year.
The launch also aims to give SMEs and challenger brands a chance to compete with the industry’s big hitters, who are investing heavily in retail media.
Anne Godfrey, CEO at GS1 UK, says: “QR codes powered by GS1 build on the foundations that have served retail so well for decades. By linking a product’s unique GS1 identifier to trusted digital information, they support a more connected and transparent future for the industry. Making it easier for businesses to adopt this technology is an important step in helping the UK retail sector prepare for what comes next.”
Tesco
As touched upon earlier, Tesco has replaced traditional barcodes with QR codes on 13 of its own brand sausage products.
Whilst shoppers will continue to checkout as usual, they can now access detailed product information by scanning the QR codes with their smartphones.
Tesco Development and Change Director Peter Draper says: “For customers, this is a tiny and almost invisible change at the checkout, but for the retail industry it’s a significant step forward. Moving to QR codes will help us reduce food waste, improve stock control and unlock new digital benefits for our customers.”
He adds: “Customers will continue to shop and pay in exactly the same way, but they’ll have the option to access far richer information about the products they buy simply by using their smartphones. Over time, this opens up exciting possibilities, such as personalised digital tools to help customers manage the food they buy and reduce waste at home.”
2026 RTIH Innovation Awards
QR codes will be a key focus area at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards.
The awards are now open for entries and celebrate global retail technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.
Our winners will be revealed at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards Ceremony, taking place at The HAC in Central London on Wednesday, 4th November.
Check out our 2025 winners here.
Our 2025 hall of fame entrants were revealed during a sold out event which took place at The HAC on 16th October and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by award winning comedian, actress and writer Tiff Stevenson.
In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “This is the awards’ fifth year as a physical event. We started off with just 30 people at the South Place Hotel not far from here, then moved to London Bridge Hotel, then The Barbican, and last year RIBA’s HQ in the West End.”
“But I’m conscious of the fact that, to quote the legend that is Taylor Swift, You’re only as hot as your last hit, baby. So, this year we’ve moved to our biggest venue yet, and also pulled in our largest number of entries to date and broken attendance records.”
He added: “This year’s submissions have without doubt been our best yet. To quote one of the judges: The examples of innovative developments across both traditional and digital retail spaces were truly remarkable.”
Congratulations to our winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Tiff Stevenson, and all those who attended our 2025 gathering.
