GS1 Digital Link
Basic product identification
Product Identifier (GTIN)
Globally unique product ID
Understanding GS1 Digital Link
A single code with infinite possibilities
GS1 Digital Link is the foundation of our SmartLinks platform, enabling products to connect to the digital world through a single, structured QR code that can accommodate multiple uses.
Unlike traditional QR codes that only contain a simple URL, GS1 Digital Link follows a standardised format that embeds critical product information directly in the URL structure, making it both machine-readable and human-readable.
Why GS1 Digital Link matters
- Connects physical products to digital experiences
- Creates a standardised way to encode product information
- Enables multiple applications with a single code
- Future-proofs your packaging for evolving technology
- Provides seamless connection between supply chain, retail, and consumer engagement
Scroll to explore the levels
Level Zero: URL Redirects
Start simple with Level Zero
Key Features
- GS1 Digital Link QR codes
- GS1 Resolver
- Redirect to your existing product pages
- Track and Analyse scan rates and location
- Contextual redirects based on location
- Custom domain
- Supports any GS1 Digital Link field set
Use Cases
SmartLinks QR Codes can replace your existing marketing led QR codes with GS1 Digital Links that can simply redirect to existing product or information pages. Fast to implement and future proof.
Implementation complexity:
Level One: Rich Customer Portals
Enrich your product information
Key Features
- Brand & Product Information
- Health, Nutrition, Allergens & Ingredients
- Recipes & Inspiration
- Offers, Promotions & Marketing Engagement
- Sustainability, Recycling & Traceability
- Accessibility & Internationalisation
- EU Wine labelling legislation
Use Cases
Our Product Portals, allow you to enrich your product information, adding rich product data, and marketing and engagement tools. Completely white labelled customer UI, mobile first, multi language and WCAG 2.0 screen reader accessible.
Implementation complexity:
Level Two: Batch and Tracking data
Add secondary information to QR codes
Key Features
- Batch & Expiry Information
- Recalls, alerts and ingredient changes
- Stock Management
- Grey Market Traceability
- Enhanced Provenance and Sustainability information
- Basic Authentication & Anti Counterfeiting
Use Cases
When your packaging and printing allows - add in secondary information to QR codes, such as batches, variants, expiry, use by, and other product dates and data. For detailed stock control, supply chain inventory tracking, recalls and alerts.
Implementation complexity:
Level Three: Unique Product ID's
Every item gets a unique QR code
Key Features
- Digital Deposit Return Schemes
- Loyalty points, games and rewards
- Product Authentication and anti-counterfeiting
- Warranty Registration
- Precise shipping, tracking and grey market identification
- Digital Product Passports
Use Cases
Know every product, with the SmartLinks full solution that allows every item to have a unique QR code letting you meet DPP, GSPR and other new legislation. On the outside of the product, or inside the packaging, you can trace, identify and reward on every single product.
Implementation complexity: