Preparing for the 2027 Barcode Transition

By 2027, the EU will require most consumer products to include Digital Product Passports (DPPs), accessible via smart, scannable iQR codes. For brands and manufacturers, this shift isn’t just regulatory – it’s an opportunity to lead in transparency, sustainability, and digital innovation.

At Buyerdock, we’ve broken down the journey into three manageable steps to help you future-proof your business today.

Step 1: Smart Barcode Integration (2025–2026)

Start with the basics- your barcodes.

• Upload Your GTINs: In under 10 minutes, Buyerdock can convert your barcode numbers into GS1-compliant iQR codes using digital link technology.
• Print Now, Not Later: Adding QR codes now is essential. Retrofitting packaging later can be costly and disruptive.
• Future-Proofed URLs: Even if your product data isn’t fully ready yet, point your iQR code to your website homepage or holding page. This enables compliance now – and flexibility later.

Optional: Add Batch and Serial Numbers

For brands ready to level up, adding batch and serial data into your iQR structure (e.g., moreinfo.io/01/[barcode]/10/[batch]/21/[serial) enhances traceability. You’ll be able to distinguish the same product manufactured in different factories.

This step can be phased in later. What matters most is getting the QR system in place now.

Step 2: Engage Your Audience (2025–2026)

Once iQR codes are on-pack, you’ve opened a powerful direct-to-consumer channel.

• Test and Learn: Track what customers scan, where they scan, and what content engages them.
• Offer More Than Info: Use the QR journey to share brand stories, offer promotions, or build loyalty.
• Optimise and Adapt: Let real-time insights drive improvements in messaging and product education.

Step 3: DPP Compliance by 2027

By 2026/27, full DPP requirements will become mandatory in the EU. This includes:

• Product Identification: Unique IDs, HS codes, manufacturer/importer details
• Traceability: Where items were grown, made, assembled, and finished
• Substance & Certification Info: Including performance, safety, and ecolabel data
• End-of-Life Guidance: Repair, refurbishment, recycling instructions

Buyerdock enables you to build this content gradually, updating the digital twin behind each iQR code without needing to reprint packaging.

Already Law: On-Pack Recycling Compliance

Don’t forget the present while planning for the future. Packaging compliance is already required in:

• France (2022)
• Italy (2023)
• Spain (2025)
• Portugal (2025)

Our platform helps you generate the correct logos for each market – and house them behind your iQR codes where allowed.

Why Act Now?

• Avoid Costly Retrofitting
• Stay Ahead of 2027 Compliance
• Open a Direct Digital Channel with Customers
• Demonstrate Transparency and Trust
• Keep Packaging Lean and Future-Proof

Get Started Today

Buyerdock is the only fully automated solution that enables instant onboarding to DPP and iQR compliance. Backed by GS1 and aligned with upcoming EU regulations, we help brands scale their compliance without compromising design or speed to market.

Book a Demo
See it in action → Loake Shoemakers Case Study