GS1 DataBar is a bar code which can enable dynamic data (e.g. batch and/or best before data) to be captured at the Point of Sale.

DataBar symbols can hold a product identification number in less space than the traditional EAN 13 symbol, or more data in the same amount of space. In this context GS1 DataBar has a significant role to play in enabling the bar coding of small, previously hard to mark items as well as offering a solution for business issues including traceability, category management and shrinkage.

The benefits include:

• Traceability and product recall possibilities
• Significantly improved coupon functionality and management
• Better sell by/expiration date management
• Better understanding of consumer buying habits
• Better variable product weight management
• Sales area identification, by identifying the difference between case sales and counter sales
• Data synchronisation for variable weight items
• Improved accuracy and speed at POS for fresh produce, by eliminating PLU-entry errors by cashiers or at self-checkout
• Identification of vendor for fresh produce
• Easier bar coding of inhabitually-shaped products, such as those that are curved or spherical
• Category management, enabling departments such as meat, poultry or produce to have access to the same level of category management utilised in the centre of the store
• Shrink reduction
• Capture of additional data for books & periodicals, with data such as title and volume
• The end of 4-digit (99.99) price limitations and related revenue losses
• The GS1 DataBar will perform at equal or greater speeds per transaction as EAN/UPC

Product Management and Traceability

The management of fresh and chilled foods as well as loose produce can be revolutionised through the application of GS1 DataBar symbols. Studies have shown that approximately 25% of the world supply of fresh produce is wasted. An efficient way to manage short shelf life items through the supply chain will go a long way to cutting this waste and cost.

GS1 DataBar can:

• enable full visibility of stock by expiry/best before date or serial number
• assist with stock rotation by expiry date, reducing waste
• activate point of sale promotions for products near expiry/best before
• prevent the sale of expired products
• block the sale of recalled products.

Read more about the Benefits and Applications of GS1 DataBar here:
Fresh Produce Management using GS1 DataBar
Feile Foods - an Irish GS1 DataBar success story
Expiry Date Management using GS1 DataBar in Korea
Case Studies from across the globe

ATTACHMENTS (Click on the filename to download):

GS1 DataBar Next Generation Brochure_1