App launched to help wine producers comply with new labelling laws in 2023
New regulations for 2023 require all wine sold in the EU to carry more information, including allergens, ingredients and nutritional values.
Buyerdock has launched a web app – powered by GS1 standards – to help brands adapt, meet growing demand for sustainability information, and connect with their consumers in new ways.
London, UK – 15 December 2022 – A new web app has been launched to help wine producers adapt to new EU legislation and meet growing demand for transparent information on packaging – by transforming how they connect with consumers.
UK tech company Buyerdock’s web app enables brands to create new messaging and marketing opportunities through GS1-powered 2D-QR codes printed on packaging. These next-generation barcodes offer a range of extensive features that help businesses meet a wide range of complex needs by instantly connecting consumers to dynamic, real-time content at the scan of a smartphone.
Kevin Dixie, co-founder of Buyerdock, said: “We’re delighted to launch this product at a time when brands need to stay one step ahead of new regulations, and customers demand more information about what they are buying. Our initial testing with wine products has shown that the recycling and allergens tabs are the most clicked in the EU, which reveals how important this information is to consumers. The web app will help to build trust and transparency in an industry that is changing fast.”
The new EU laws, which come into effect in 2023, require wine producers to display energy values, intolerances or allergens, nutritional declarations and a list of ingredients either printed on the label or via a QR code. Failure to comply will result in the wine being removed from sale, with penalties and fines imposed. The legislative changes are part of EU efforts to increase transparency for the consumer.
To help meet this challenge, any wine producer hosting product information on the Buyerdock app will have the ability to update or publish new messaging without having to alter the packaging of their products. This will enable them to meet the consumer and business needs of today, and rapidly adapt to those of tomorrow, through one easy, flexible and cost-effective solution.
QR codes, powered by GS1 Digital Link, offer a wealth of opportunities for strengthening brand loyalty, ensuring compliance, reducing packaging costs and communicating important information in new and engaging ways.
Sarah Atkins, CMO of GS1 UK said: “Doing business is tough even in the best of times. The last few years have highlighted how responsive brands and retailers must be to survive. In addition there is more legislative change than ever before, be that Natasha’s Law, High in Fat, Sugar and Salt (HFSS) legislation or the continued push towards Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). While we may no longer be in the EU, UK brands have to be acutely aware of legislation that will impact them if they have ambition to grow their business overseas.
“Providing real-time access to accurate information is no longer a differentiator, it is rapidly becoming an essential part of any business strategy and GS1 Digital Link, accessed via a QR code, is vital in helping make this a reality.”
Buyerdock web app
Brands that sign up to Buyerdock will be able to get 2D-QR codes for free. To unlock the full capabilities of the web app that ensures compliance with local regulations, there is a charge starting at from £29.99 per month.
Along with the wine regulations, from 1 January 2023, all consumer products sold in France and Italy are required to provide recycling information on all consumer product labels in the local language, showing what elements of the packaging go into what bin. Failure to comply could result in fines of up to 10% of turnover or other severe penalties.
Each 2D-QR code will also automatically generate the recycling information required per country digitally via a web app, instead of on the product, helping to reduce clutter and free up valuable real estate on packaging.
Key benefits include:
– Brands can quickly and easily comply with new laws and meet changing regulatory requirements across global markets – particularly recycling.
– Manufacturers have the ability to forge direct relationships with customers through an array of digitally-stored information, including recycling, sustainability, nutrition, promotions, social media, certifications and more.
– Cost-effective for companies of all sizes – each product barcode is free with access to the web app from £1 per month.
– Reduced packaging costs – information can be stored and delivered digitally, reducing packaging, costs and environmental impact.
– Simplicity and efficiency – one interface for all communication requirements in all markets, which helps to reduce brand overheads.
– Easy access for customers via a QR code scan on a smartphone, with no app download or registration required (see attached images).
– Delivers trusted information, including allergens and nutrition, which helps to make products more accessible for consumers.
Building trust and transparency
Buyerdock is the first company in the UK to be GS1 UK-approved to deliver a GS1 Digital Link through a QR code. GS1 is the only authorised provider of unique Global Trade Item Numbers (GTIN) that are used to create barcodes, most commonly used at point of sale. These are required for selling in retail and are mandatory for Amazon, TikTok, Walmart and other major retailers.
Atkins continued: “The future of retail is a seamless experience for customers on and offline and we are excited to be working with Buyerdock on the launch of a solution that offers so many opportunities for keeping consumers informed and protected.
Compliance and business growth is reliant on the quality product data that our standards enable – data that can be captured once and transferred seamlessly throughout the supply chain. This data has never been more critical as today’s savvy shopper also demands it: they are making purchasing decisions based on sustainability, safety and nutrition.”
To get a copy of the comprehensive Buyerdock regulation guide, please email here