The QR code with GS1 Digital Link can be used both for point-of-sale (POS) scanning in retail stores and for consumer scanning using a mobile phone.

Correct placement of the QR code with GS1 Digital Link is essential to ensure efficient scanning in both retail and consumer environments.

During the transition period, until retailers are ready to use 2D barcodes as the sole carrier at checkout, consumer units must continue to carry an EAN-13 barcode to ensure they can be scanned at the point of sale.

Incorrect placement may increase the risk of double scanning or slower checkout processing.

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Recommended Placement of the QR code

Follow these quidelines for placement of the QR code to support both POS scanning and consumer access to digital product information:

• It is recommended that the 2D barcode be placed within a 50 mm radius of the centre of the EAN-13 barcode - this includes all sides - to ensure fast and efficient scanning while minimizing the risk of double scans.
• The EAN-13 barcode - and the QR code - is often positioned on the lower right-hand side of the back of the product. It supportsefficient handling and scanning at checkout.
• Make sure the light zone (blank space) is sufficient around the QR code and the EAN-13 barcode.
• Avoid placing the codes too close to the edge of the packaging.

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Placement on the Front of the Product

To improve consumer access to digital product information, it may also be beneficial to place the QR code on the front of the product as well as beside the EAN-13 barcode on the back.

A front-facing QR code is more visible to consumers in-store and makes it easier for them to access product information, recipes, traceability data, sustainability information, or other digital content.

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Learn More

For additional guidance on the placement of 2D barcodes during the transition period, please refer to section 4.1.2 Placement and Multiple Barcodes in the 2D Barcodes at Retail Point-of-Sale Implementation Guideline.