GS1 Lanka celebrated its 10th Annual General Meeting (AGM) by emphasizing the future of product identification in Sri Lanka. The organization is gearing up for the increased implementation of 2D barcodes in response to the rising demand for reliable product information.
During the AGM, GS1 Lanka President Revan Fernando highlighted that for over three decades, GS1 has been instrumental in providing Sri Lankan products with a globally recognized identity. He pointed out the significant transition from traditional barcodes to 2D barcodes, emphasizing that consumers are now seeking trustworthy information regarding product origins, ingredients, authenticity, and usage.
The GS1 Sunrise 2027 initiative is a worldwide effort aimed at upgrading retail checkout systems to accommodate 2D barcodes, including QR codes and Data Matrix codes, alongside conventional 1D UPC barcodes by the close of 2027.
Submit Your Press Release
Get your company news, announcements, launches, appointments and events in front of a wider audience.
As part of the Sunrise 2027 initiative, GS1 Lanka is collaborating with the retail and healthcare sectors to facilitate the shift to 2D barcodes. Unlike standard barcodes, a GS1 QR code enables consumers to access a broader range of product information, enhancing traceability and verification in line with GS1 standards.
Fernando urged brands to participate in this transition, noting that such changes will necessitate a reevaluation of how businesses utilize limited packaging space and communicate with consumers. GS1 Lanka is also set to launch a new retail information platform designed to assist member brands in delivering more comprehensive product information and enhancing product presentation for consumers.
GS1 Lanka’s CEO, Alikie Perera, stated that the organization is increasingly focused on aiding Sri Lankan businesses in adapting to evolving global supply chains and consumer expectations. The upcoming phase will center more on 2D barcodes, GS1 Digital Link, traceability, and digital product information as businesses prepare for a marketplace enriched with connectivity and information.
On a local scale, GS1 Lanka has continued its outreach initiatives for entrepreneurs, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), manufacturers, and exporters, addressing topics such as product identification, barcode standards, traceability, supply chain efficiency, and market access. The organization has observed a notable rise in the adoption of GS1 Activate and Verified by GS1, with over 5,500 member companies registered and more than 20,000 product records uploaded.
The AGM concluded with an acknowledgment of the contributions made by GS1 Lanka’s members, partners, Board, and team, while outlining the future direction for the organization in promoting global standards and innovative product identification technologies among Sri Lankan businesses.
