Tesco
Retailer, UK. 3 public steps towards 2D codes since Apr 2025, latest step: 27 Jul 2026.
StageRollout
CodeGS1 QR / Digital Link
Date in the codeYes
What is codedFresh food
CountriesUK
TypeRetailer
Steps and sources
- 27 Jul 2026Testing · UK Testing a single 2D barcode on selected own-brand products that handles both checkout scanning and product information Source ↗
- 24 Apr 2026Rollout · UK Whole own-label core sausage range moved from the linear barcode to QR codes (pork sausages, chipolatas, Cumberland, Lincolnshire, sausage meat) Source ↗
- Apr 2025Testing · UK QR codes powered by GS1 on 12 own-brand meat and produce lines with 10 suppliers in southern England, to improve use-by and batch accuracy and stop sale of out-of-date food Source ↗
Supplying Tesco? Check whether your packs and line are ready for 2D codes (UK): eight questions, the answer on screen.
2D readiness check →Analysis
Tesco's own-label core sausages were the first full live range in a UK supermarket to move from the linear barcode to a QR code powered by GS1. After the switch, a UK company that prints codes on packs told me it had weeks of calls from suppliers asking whether this was a new government rule. It is a retailer decision within GS1 Sunrise 2027. The EU Digital Product Passport is a law. On the pack both look the same: a 2D code.
What such a code looks like
QR with GS1 Digital Link
https://id.gs1.org/01/09506000134352/10/AB1234?17=271231
- (01) 09506000134352
- GTIN: product number
- (10) AB1234
- Batch or lot
- (17) 271231
- Expiry date: 31 Dec 2027
