Notes from the connected product economy.
Practical writing on DPPs, GS1 Digital Link, ESPR readiness, agentic commerce and the operational reality of giving every product a digital identity.
News · 28 April 2026The 20p Pivot: Why the UK's DRS Mandate Is a Secret Weapon for Beverage Brands
Exchange for Change has confirmed a flat 20p deposit for the UK's October 2027 Deposit Return Scheme — but Wales is going its own way. Here's why a single intelligent QR code is now the smartest move for beverage brands.
News · 27 March 2026UK Supermarkets Lead the Charge: The Traditional Barcode Is Being Replaced by 2D QR Codes
Major UK supermarkets including Tesco are phasing out traditional 1D barcodes in favour of dynamic 2D QR codes — marking the biggest shift in retail packaging in decades.
News · 22 December 2025EU Digital Product Passports: 2026 Is When the Real Work Begins
The EU's Digital Product Passport regulation is no longer a future concept — it's becoming enforceable reality, with mandatory deadlines starting in 2027 and a central registry expected by mid-2026.
News · 15 September 2025Sunrise 2027: The Barcode Wake-Up Call Every Retailer Needs to Hear
GS1 US has issued a wake-up call to the retail industry: the transition from traditional barcodes to 2D QR codes is happening, and retailers must be ready by the end of 2027.
News · 15 June 2025SmartLinks Launches Free Self-Serve Platform for Connected Packaging
SmartLinks unveils a free self-serve platform empowering brands of all sizes to create GS1-powered QR code experiences and meet Digital Product Passport regulations.
News · 8 April 2025Earth Positive x SmartLinks: Revolutionising Sustainable Fan Merchandise
Earth Positive and SmartLinks team up to create eco-conscious fan merch with NFC-powered digital experiences, launching with Band of Skulls.
Industry Insights · 15 January 2025GS1 Digital Links Are Going Global — The QR Code Revolution Gains Momentum
GS1's campaign to replace traditional barcodes with Digital Link QR codes has reached 449 million people worldwide, signalling a seismic shift in retail.
Case Studies · 10 August 2024Transformulas Partners with SmartLinks to Revolutionise Skincare Packaging
Leading skincare brand Transformulas integrates SmartLinks QR technology across its entire product range, setting a new benchmark for connected beauty packaging.
News · 11 July 2024Tesco Trials QR Codes in What's Being Called the 'Second Barcode Revolution'
Tesco is piloting GS1 Digital Link QR codes on its products, giving shoppers access to dynamic product information and marking a major milestone in UK retail.