GS1 Sunrise 2027 isn't just a barcode change. Is your product data ready?

For suppliers, this may sound like a packaging or labeling project. In reality, it's also a data and integration project.

Changing the barcode on a product is only one step. The information behind it must also remain accurate across ERP systems, inventory platforms, warehouses, EDI documents and retailer systems.

What is GS1 Sunrise 2027?

GS1 Sunrise 2027 is an industry initiative focused on expanding the use of 2D barcodes at retail points of sale. According to GS1's implementation guidance, the goal is for retail point-of-sale systems to be capable of reading and processing GS1-compliant 2D barcodes by the end of 2027.

Unlike a traditional UPC barcode, which generally carries a product's Global Trade Item Number, a 2D barcode can include additional product-level information. Depending on the product and use case, that could include:

• A GTIN
• A batch or lot number
• An expiration date
• A serial number
• A product version
• A link to additional online information

Traditional barcodes won't disappear overnight. In many cases, products will carry both linear and 2D barcodes during the transition. Retailers will also move at different speeds based on their systems and operational priorities.

That gives suppliers time to prepare, but it doesn't mean they should wait until 2027 to start.

Why this matters to suppliers

The barcode is the visible part of the change. The more complicated work happens behind the scenes.

For a 2D barcode to provide value, the information encoded within it must match the information stored elsewhere in the business. That includes product data in the ERP, inventory records, warehouse systems, shipping documentation and any related information sent to retailers.

If those systems aren't connected, richer barcode data can create more opportunities for mismatches.

A product may have the correct GTIN on its packaging while an outdated identifier remains in the ERP. A warehouse may capture lot information that never reaches another connected system. An Advance Ship Notice may be transmitted successfully but contain information that doesn't align with the physical shipment.

These are the same types of data gaps that already contribute to fulfillment delays, inventory discrepancies and retailer chargebacks. Adding more product data won't automatically solve them.

A new barcode won't fix disconnected systems

Retail supply chains depend on information moving through several connected systems.

Product information may begin in a product management or ERP platform before moving to an inventory system, warehouse, shipping platform, EDI provider and retailer. Each system needs to interpret that information consistently.

This is why GS1 Sunrise 2027 should be treated as more than a label redesign.

Suppliers need to understand:

• Where product information originates
• Which system owns each piece of data
• How that information moves between systems
• Where data is manually entered or updated
• Whether connected systems can support additional product attributes
• How changes will be tested before going live

As we've discussed in our guide to connecting EDI with ERP, warehouse and eCommerce systems, EDI becomes much more valuable when it's part of a connected workflow rather than another standalone process.

What does GS1 Sunrise 2027 mean for EDI?

2D barcodes aren't replacing Electronic Data Interchange. The two technologies serve different purposes.

The barcode identifies the physical product and may carry additional item-level details. EDI allows suppliers, retailers, warehouses and other trading partners to exchange structured business documents electronically.

The important part is ensuring the information agrees.

For example, a retailer may receive an EDI 856 Advance Ship Notice describing what is included in a shipment. When the physical products or cartons arrive, the retailer may scan the associated barcodes and labels. If the product identifiers, quantities, lot information or shipment details don't align, the retailer may need to investigate the discrepancy.

The EDI document could be transmitted perfectly from a technical perspective and still contain inaccurate information.

That's why suppliers should review how data moves from the ERP and warehouse into their EDI workflows. The goal isn't simply to send more information. It's to make sure the right information reaches the right place without creating additional manual work.

Better product data can improve more than compliance

Preparing for 2D barcodes isn't only about meeting future retailer expectations.

Richer, more accurate product information can support:

• More precise product recalls
• Better expiration-date management
• Improved inventory visibility
• Reduced food and product waste
• More accurate returns processing
• Stronger product authentication
• Faster and more reliable replenishment

Retailers are already looking for better inventory and product data because it helps them keep shelves stocked and respond more quickly to demand. As we explored inFaster retail replenishment starts with better inventory data, faster decisions only work when the underlying information can be trusted.

GS1 Sunrise 2027 creates another reason for suppliers to strengthen that foundation.

How suppliers can start preparing

You don't need to redesign every system immediately. A good first step is understanding what you have today and where changes may be needed.

1. Audit your product data
   Review how GTINs, SKUs, lot numbers, expiration dates and other product attributes are created and maintained. Look for duplicate records, missing information and fields that are updated differently across systems.
2. Map the complete data flow
   Document how product and shipment information moves from your ERP to your warehouse, EDI platform, shipping system and retail partners. This makes it easier to identify manual steps and points where information may fall out of sync.
3. Review system capabilities
   Confirm whether your ERP, warehouse and inventory systems can store and process the product attributes your business may need. This is especially important if you rely on older systems or highly customized workflows.
4. Speak with your retail partners
   Retailers won't all implement 2D barcodes in the same way or on the same timeline. Review any information they provide and ask how their plans may affect product labeling, data exchange and supplier testing.
5. Test from beginning to end
   Testing shouldn't stop once a barcode scans successfully. Follow the information through the entire workflow. Confirm that the product data stored in your systems matches the barcode, warehouse records, shipping documentation and related EDI transactions.

The best time to fix data gaps is before 2D barcodes become retailer requirements

Retail technology is changing quickly, but the lesson behind GS1 Sunrise 2027 is familiar.

New tools only work when the systems and data supporting them work too.

Suppliers that begin reviewing product data and integrations now will be in a stronger position as retailers introduce new requirements. They'll also be better prepared to improve inventory accuracy, traceability, replenishment and fulfillment across their existing operations.

If you're unsure how product, inventory and shipping information currently moves between your systems, eZCom can help you review the workflow and identify opportunities to strengthen your EDI integrations.