Shop owners across the UK are voicing their scepticism regarding plans to replace traditional barcodes with QR codes, which promise to offer more detailed product information. This transition, championed by GS1, an international non-profit organisation responsible for maintaining global barcode standards, aims to overhaul the retail landscape by 2027.
Current barcodes, which have served the retail industry for over half a century, can only encode a limited amount of data, specifically seven basic details such as product name, manufacturer, type, size, weight, colour, and price. This conventional system relies on matching the barcode number to a comprehensive database at points of sale to ensure accurate pricing and checkout.
In contrast, the proposed QR codes will enable businesses to store and provide consumers with a wealth of information, including ingredients, allergens, nutritional data, and even recipe suggestions. Anne Godfrey, Chief Executive of GS1 UK, noted that nearly 50% of British retailers have already upgraded their systems to accommodate this technological shift.
Despite the potential benefits, many shop owners express concerns regarding the financial implications of implementing the new system. Employees at Poshwalks, an independent footwear retailer located on Grainger Street in Newcastle, label the transition a "tedious process" and raise doubts about the costs associated with upgrading their systems. Mazin, a 25-year-old worker at the store, remarked, "If QR codes got brought in, then it would be a tedious process of having to add those manually instead of barcodes." His colleague Rajesh Kumar from McGrain's convenience store echoed similar feelings, stating that while QR codes could improve the depth of information available to consumers, they would require new software and systems, the costs of which remain uncertain.
The perceptible shift towards QR codes is further elaborated by Gabriel McKeown, head of Macroeconomics at Sad Rabbit Investments, who highlighted the dichotomy of the push for advanced inventory management against the financial realities retailers currently face. "This transition presents a double-edged sword," he noted, as it involves significant investment during economically challenging times. McKeown articulated that the shift is not just logistical but represents an entire reimagining of the retail experience.
Conversely, certain retailers, such as Reflex Records, appear to be more receptive to the change. Dan Redhead, a staff member there, indicated that implementing QR codes might enhance the efficiency of the checkout process, especially during busy periods when traditional service could lag. He stated, "If they have the systems in place and can afford it, then I don't see why not."
Inside the Grainger Market, other businesses including Robinson's pet shop have noted the presence of both QR codes and barcodes on products. Employee Liam Pattinson described the potential efficiencies that could arise from a shift towards QR technology, although he also highlighted the practical challenges that may arise during the transition.
Marketing and insights director at MRI Software, Jenni Matthews, discussed the broader implications of this change on consumer behaviour, stating, "QR codes offer a unique way of meeting that need by embedding links to nutritional data and promotional content." However, she cautioned that this trend might inadvertently leave behind older demographics less familiar with modern technology.
With a complete international rollout of QR codes expected by 2027, many industry proponents are preparing for the shift while raising essential questions regarding consumer adaptability and the necessary investments. Anne Godfrey concluded this sentiment by remarking on the legacy of barcodes, "We won't celebrate the death of the humble barcode, but it is time to say a long goodbye to it."
The ongoing dialogue around this transition reflects a pivotal moment in retail as businesses evaluate the potential impacts on operations and consumer interactions.
Source: Noah Wire Services