GS1: definition, interests and technical specifications of the standard

What is the GS1 standard?

The GS1 standard is an international standardization system used by companies, particularly in the food, retail, and healthcare sectors, to identify, structure, and exchange product data in a unified manner. It is based on unique identifiers (such as GTIN barcodes) and common standards to facilitate traceability, logistics, and product digitization.

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This standard allows companies to standardize their product information (references, weight, dimensions, allergens, etc.) and share it securely with their partners (distributors, marketplaces, e-commerce platforms). For example, a food manufacturer can use the GS1 standard to assign a GTIN code to each of its items, ensuring their global identification and compatibility with its partners' systems.

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One of GS1's main strengths is its interoperability. By integrating this standard into a PIM Product Information Management) system, companies can centralize, enrich, and distribute their product data in accordance with distributor requirements and international regulations. This simplifies listing processes, reduces errors, and speeds up time to market.

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The GS1 standard is also a lever for the digital transformation of businesses. It enables the automation of data exchanges, improves product traceability, and meets consumers' growing expectations in terms of transparency (origin, composition, sustainability).