How we got here

Over the last 40 years, we’ve opened offices in over 100 countries and amassed more than a million members using supply chain standards that make business easier. Learn about key dates in our history.

• 1973:   The barcode standard is agreed

  Industry leaders in the US select a single standard for product identification. Still used today, it’s known as the GS1 barcode.

• 1974:   The first barcode is scanned

  On 26 April, a packet of chewing gum becomes the first barcoded product to be scanned in a supermarket.

• 1977:   The GS1 system is launched

  The European Article Numbering (EAN) Association — later called GS1 — opens an office in Brussels. Its founding members launch an identification system to improve supply chain efficiency.

• 1983:   Barcodes are used on wholesale multi-packs

  As barcodes have proved their reliability and usefulness in real-world environments, they are extended and used on product outer cases.

• 1989:   GS1 moves beyond barcodes

  With wide area networks making an impact on supply chains, we create our first international standard for electronic data interchange.

• 1990:   Responsibilities grow

  The US and international arms of GS1 come together formally, creating a single organisation with a presence in 45 countries.

• 1995:   First healthcare standards created

  We expand our work into the healthcare sector, working closely with healthcare bodies and providers.

• 1999:   The GS1 DataBar arrives

  After significant research and design, the GS1 DataBar is created. This holds more information than a barcode, yet is significantly smaller.

• 2000:   90th local office opens

  In just ten years, we double the number of countries in which we have a local presence.

• 2002:   Global standards forum launched

  Our Global Standards Management Process is launched. This global forum gives GS1 members one place to discuss standards.

• 2004:   The first standard for RFID is created

  With Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Chips becoming more common, we create a standard for their implementation and use.

• 2007:   GS1 enters the business-to-consumer world

  As ecommerce grows, we begin to create open standards that give consumers direct access to key product information.

• 2013:   A 40-year celebration

  With a presence in over 100 countries and more than a million members, we celebrate 40 years of the global language of business.