Are you making the most of upcoming packaging changes? Even if you’re ticking all the compliance boxes, there is a huge opportunity that you may be missing.
GS1 Australia recently hosted a webinar on how liquor companies can get more out of packaging changes with GS1 2D barcodes. Unlike traditional retail barcodes, GS1 2D barcodes can connect products to detailed digital information, allowing brands to provide relevant content to consumers, retailers and supply chain partners through a single code. They can lower packaging costs, improve supply chain traceability and open a direct line of communication with consumers.
Simplifying compliance and reducing costs
For brands operating across multiple markets, keeping up with different labelling rules can be complex and costly. GS1 Digital Link technology enables brands to direct users to market-specific information, including nutritional details, recycling guidance and regulatory disclosures.
“The 2D barcode can automatically translate your content in over 250 languages,” explained Greg Calvert from FreshChain Systems.
Importantly, mandatory on-pack information, including pregnancy warnings, still needs to appear on the label. Supplementary digital content works differently. Because it sits online, brands can update it without reprinting packaging, potentially reducing both costs and waste.
Consumer engagement and traceability
UK-based Jerry Can Spirits has introduced a digital product passport providing consumers with access to ingredients, nutritional information, batch details, serving suggestions and brand stories.
“People want to know what they’re putting in their bodies these days. We want to be transparent with our customers,” said Dan Freeman, Co-Founder at Jerry Can Spirits.
A 2D barcode allows drinks businesses:
- Greater transparency on ingredients, origin and sustainability
- Strengthen supply chain traceability
- Simpler packaging with one barcode to share product information across markets and languages
- More flexibility to update product information digitally without reprinting packaging
- Consumer engagement to share brand stories, recipes, promotions and feedback opportunities
- Consumer insights to see where products are scanned and what information consumers find most useful
With the global retail industry targeting widespread 2D barcode scanning capability by 2028, liquor companies can use upcoming packaging reviews to consider how connected packaging could improve operational efficiency, product transparency and consumer engagement.
Watch webinar
To discover more, contact GS1 Australia.
GS1 Australia is a Platinum Partner of the Drinks Association.