How we got here
Since 1973, we have opened offices in over 110 countries and amassed more than 2 million members using supply chain standards that make business easier. Learn about key dates in our history.
It all began with a barcode
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1971
Industry Agreement to Collaborate
Industry leaders agree to use a “universal product code” for product identification. This identifier is called the Global Trade Item Number, or GTIN, today.
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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.
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1974
The first barcode is scanned
On 26 June, a packet of chewing gum becomes the first barcoded product to be scanned in a supermarket.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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1990
Responsibilities grow
The US and international arms of GS1 come together formally, creating a single organisation with a presence in 45 countries.
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1995
First healthcare standards created
We expand our work into the healthcare sector, working closely with healthcare bodies and providers.
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2000
90th local office opens
In just ten years, we double the number of countries in which we have a local presence.
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2002
Global standards forum launched
Our Global Standards Management Process is launched. This global forum gives GS1 members one place to discuss standards.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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