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Tesco First UK Supermarket to Replace Barcodes with QR Codes

4/17/2026

30 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Tesco, the UK retailer, will replace barcodes with Quick Response (QR) codes on its own-label sausages across 13 lines, marking a UK supermarket first.
Tesco claims the move will boost stock control, cut waste, and raise efficiency.
QR codes will identify batches during recalls, minimizing waste.
GS1 UK backs the shift, citing its potential for a connected, transparent future.
Tesco hopes it will prompt other retailers to adopt similar practices.

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Story summary

Tesco, the UK retailer, will replace barcodes with Quick Response (QR) codes on its own-label sausages across 13 lines, marking a UK supermarket first.
Tesco claims the move will boost stock control, cut waste, and raise efficiency.
QR codes will identify batches during recalls, minimizing waste.
GS1 UK backs the shift, citing its potential for a connected, transparent future.
Tesco hopes it will prompt other retailers to adopt similar practices.