GS1 Lanka celebrated its 10th Annual General Meeting (AGM), emphasizing the future of product identification in Sri Lanka. This event comes as businesses gear up for the anticipated integration of 2D barcodes, responding to the increasing consumer demand for reliable product information.
During the AGM, Revan Fernando, President of GS1 Lanka, highlighted that the organization has been instrumental in granting Sri Lankan products a worldwide identity for over three decades. He emphasized the significant transition from traditional barcodes to 2D barcodes, noting that consumers are now seeking more than just product identification; they are also interested in trustworthy details regarding the product’s origin, ingredients, authenticity, and usage.
The GS1 Sunrise 2027 initiative is a global effort aimed at transitioning retail checkout systems to accommodate 2D barcodes, including QR codes and Data Matrix codes, alongside traditional 1D UPC codes by the end of 2027.
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As part of the Sunrise 2027 initiative, GS1 Lanka is collaborating with the retail and healthcare industries to facilitate the shift to 2D barcodes. Unlike standard barcodes used during transactions, GS1 QR codes can link consumers to extensive product details and enhance traceability and verification in line with GS1 standards.
Fernando urged brands to participate in this transition, pointing out that the shift will necessitate a reevaluation of how businesses utilize the limited space on product packaging and engage with consumers. Additionally, GS1 Lanka plans to launch a new retail information platform designed to assist member brands in offering more detailed product information and improving consumer presentation.
Alikie Perera, CEO of GS1 Lanka, shared that the organization’s efforts are increasingly centered on aiding Sri Lankan businesses in adapting to the evolving global supply chains and consumer demands. The upcoming phase will focus more on 2D barcodes, GS1 Digital Link, traceability, and digital product information, as companies prepare for a more interconnected and information-centric market.
On a local level, GS1 Lanka has continued its outreach programs for entrepreneurs, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), manufacturers, and exporters, addressing topics such as product identification, barcode standards, traceability, supply chain efficiency, and market access. The organization has also witnessed an increase in the adoption of GS1 Activate and Verified by GS1, with over 5,500 member companies registered on these platforms 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 staff, while outlining the organization’s future endeavors to promote global standards and innovative product identification technologies among Sri Lankan businesses.
