Industrial Inkjet
2D Code in Retail: Mastering Sunrise 2027 efficiently and future-proof
Marking in the retail sector is changing fundamentally. Whether 2D Code, PPWR or Digital Product Passport – REA is your partner for practical, cost-efficient and regulatory-compliant implementation. With our experience from the pharmaceutical industry, we will accompany you into the FMCG future.
The change in FMCG – Why act now?
With the GS1 Sunrise 2027 initiative, one thing is certain: the classic EAN barcode will be replaced in retail by 2D codes (2D code in retail) such as DataMatrix or QR. At the same time, the new EU packaging regulation (PPWR) demands greater recyclability and traceability. The Digital Product Passport (DPP) complements this with product-specific information in machine-readable form.
For manufacturers in the FMCG sector, this development entails far-reaching changes – in packaging design, coding and marking systems and process integration. Early action enables implementation with foresight – often more efficiently and cost-effectively than expected.
Typical content and added value of the 2D Code
What a 2D Code can perform
A GS1-compliant 2D Code contains significantly more information than a classic EAN barcode. Typical contents:
- GTIN (article number)
- Best before date (BBD)
- Batch number / serial number
- Material information (for recycling processes)
- Link to digital product data (e.g. GS1 Digital Link)
The integration of such data not only increases traceability, but also creates the conditions for more efficient processes, automated inspections and a better information situation along the supply chain.
The added value of the 2D Code goes far beyond pure data storage. It opens up new possibilities in various areas and offers significant advantages for both companies and consumers.
- Inventory management: Ensuring accuracy, overview and freshness while avoiding waste.
- Traceability: Ensuring product authenticity and transparency to increase consumer confidence.
- Safety: Protecting brand integrity and preventing the sale of problematic products.
- Sustainability: Promoting recycling and circular economy to reduce waste.
- Consumer engagement: Providing product information and interaction opportunities for consumers.
- Improved packaging: Optimization for marketing, regulatory compliance and better user experience.
Requirements and challenges in implementation
The switch to 2D Codes with the Sunrise 2027 initiative is not a purely technical replacement. It affects the entire packaging process and requires the interaction of several components:
Selection of suitable printing technology (depending on material, layout and speed)
Ensuring code quality in accordance with ISO/IEC 15415
Integration of coding and verification into existing lines
Mapping of regulatory required content
Adaptation of layouts, labels, software and data flows
The effort is manageable – as long as technical, standardization and packaging expertise is involved at an early stage.
The requirements are complex – but you don’t have to solve them alone. Whether you have initial questions or specific challenges: We support you with experience, clarity and non-binding advice – so that your line is fit for 2D, PPWR & more.
Webinar: 2D Code in Retail and the most important requirements for Sunrise 2027
REA – Your partner in 2D migration
REA has been supporting industrial companies in the implementation of standard-compliant coding and marking systems for decades. In the pharmaceutical industry, we were involved in the introduction of 2D serialization at an early stage – with concrete experience in regulation, line integration and quality assurance. We successfully implemented this migration together with our customers – in a highly regulated environment that places the highest demands on documentation and traceability.
We transfer this experience to FMCG – with concrete concepts that have already proven themselves in practice.
Find out more in our webinar: 2D Code in Retail – Lessons Learned from the Pharmaceutical Industry.
- Development & production in Germany
- Integration of all common technologies (inkjet, laser, label)
- Inline code verification in accordance with ISO standards
- Interfaces to ERP, MES, traceability
- Project support from requirements analysis to series production
We continuously monitor how packaging requirements develop – in terms of regulations, technology and the market. Our solutions are produced in consultation with customers, standardization bodies and partners such as GS1.
Overview
Our services in the area of 2D Code in Retail
Open-technology implementation
Direct printing, labels, laser marking – each tailored to the packaging and line.
Cross-packaging solutions
Primary, secondary and tertiary packaging at a glance – including recycling requirements and print tests on sustainable packaging materials such as monomaterials.
Ensure & verify quality
Code verification inline or offline according to ISO/IEC 15415, 15416 or 29158.
Consulting & system integration
From requirements analysis and software integration to complete series release – with training and support.
Thinking about regulation
Implementation taking into account GS1 Sunrise 2027, PPWR and DPP.
The future of retail is in the 2D Code
Our With our expertise, we can support you in the transformation from 1D Code to 2D Codein the area of 2D Code in Retail
Food industry
Beverage industry
2D code with GS1 Digital Lin
Food industry
Find The Perfect Industrial Printing Solution
Free Consultation
Unlock the potential of your business with innovative solutions tailored to your needs. Book a free consultation today and discover how REA Jet can help you stay ahead of the competition.
Book Your On-Site Demo
Experience how our cutting-edge printing technology can revolutionize your operations firsthand. Book an on-site demo today to see the speed and precision of our industrial inkjet systems in action!
Let’s talk!
Get in touch
Here are some effective next steps for businesses looking to enhance their operations with REA Jet: consider integrating industrial inkjet systems, thermal solutions, and continuous or drop-on-demand (DOD) technologies.
These options can help streamline processes and improve efficiency in your operations.
Phone: 
Fax: +1-519-894-3300
Email: See how we can help
"*" indicates required fields
Info box
Good to know
PPWR
EU Packaging Regulation
The EU packaging regulation (PPWR) aims to reduce packaging waste and promote the circular economy. It stipulates that all packaging has to be recyclable by 2030. The regulation sets targets for reuse and recycling and promotes the use of recycled materials in new packaging. The PPWR applies to all EU member states.
DPP
Digital product passport
The Digital Product Passport (DPP) is an EU initiative to promote the circular economy. It will contain information about products such as their origin, composition and recyclability. The DPP will be introduced gradually, starting with batteries in 2026, with the aim of promoting sustainability, transparency and more efficient resource management.
FMCG
Fast Moving Consumer Goods
FMCG stands for Fast Moving Consumer Goods and refers to fast-moving consumer goods for everyday use. These include food, drinks, cosmetics and cleaning products, for example. These products stand out due to their high turnover rate. The FMCG market is characterized by large brand manufacturers and intensive marketing activities.
Celebrating 40 years of Innovation & Reliability
Proudly delivering precision marking solutions that manufacturers have trusted for decades.
