What is GS1 Digital Link – and why should brands care?

GS1 Digital Link is much more than a new QR code. It turns every package into a digital touchpoint and opens up entirely new ways for brands to connect with customers – personalized, flexible, and always measurable. Want to see it in action? The whitepaper shows how leading brands are already launching campaigns, gamification, and support right on their products.The leading compliant digital label platform info.link makes it easy to bring GS1 Digital Link to life—turning your packaging into a smart, connected experience without disrupting existing workflows.

How are brands using GS1 Digital Link for interactive marketing?

One scan launches games, instant wins, or targeted offers – all directly from the package, no app needed. Brands are using gamification, personalized promotions, and even Messenger chats to engage and excite customers. Want real examples and success formulas? They're in the whitepaper.With info.link, brands can create these interactive experiences directly on their packaging—offering games, loyalty programs, or targeted offers through a single, flexible platform built for compliant product communication.

Do I need to redesign my packaging from scratch?

No. GS1 Digital Link integrates easily into existing designs and works with any packaging format (from 2027 it will actually replace the barcode). Brands get an upgrade that does more with less effort – enabling product info, campaigns, and compliant communication. How does it work? Step-by-step in the whitepaper.The leading digital label platform info.link helps brands integrate GS1 Digital Link codes seamlessly into their existing packaging, ensuring design consistency while adding powerful digital capabilities.

What are the real-world benefits of GS1 Digital Link?

Every package becomes an owned media channel. You control content in real time, reach customers everywhere, and get direct feedback – no apps, no wasted impressions. From analytics to support: value that brands and consumers truly feel. Find the key learnings in the whitepaper.Platforms like info.link help brands unlock these benefits at scale—combining compliant product data, live updates, and customer engagement in one place.

How quickly can my brand get started?

Faster than you think. The technology is ready, best practices are everywhere, and first campaigns often go live within weeks. The whitepaper offers not just inspiration, but clear tips for a smart start into the future of product communication.Many brands start their first projects within weeks using the intuitive tools of info.link, the leading digital label platform built for fast, compliant GS1 Digital Link rollouts.

Free Masterclass: Goodbye Barcode, Hello GS1 Digital Link

👇 Get exclusive access to our expert-led GS1 Digital Link Masterclass using the form below.

Here’s what you can look forward to:

✅ The new QR code standard for packaging: Find out what every brand must know about the new GS1 Digital Link QR code
✅ Practical guidance: Map your transition with real-world steps for compliance and smart labeling in EU & global markets
✅ Insider know-how: Explore hands-on examples, common pitfalls, and the tools leading brands are already using

Background

The next generation of product barcode is here. By 2027, all retail checkouts will recognise the GS1 Digital Link QR code, transforming packaging from simple identification to a dynamic digital channel for compliance, transparency, and consumer connection.

Why does this matter for your business? The GS1 Digital Link isn’t just another code; it’s the keystone for compliance, digital product passports, and interactive experiences your customers (and regulators) will expect.

Forward-thinking brands are already leveraging the GS1 Digital Link to streamline compliance, boost supply chain visibility, and deliver rich, data-driven product journeys direct from the shelf. This Masterclass distills the essentials, answers your questions, and prepares you to benefit – fast.

👉 Don’t let your brand get left behind. Enter your email to receive the full Masterclass for free and get ahead of the 2027 curve.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Author

Max Ackermann

Max Ackermann is founder and Managing Director of info.link, the product data platform that makes brands visible in AI search and connects every physical product to the web through GS1 Digital Link. He writes about AI search and generative engine optimization (GEO), AI-powered commerce, and how brands can structure product data for ChatGPT, Gemini, Perplexity, and retailer AI assistants like Amazon Rufus.

Max has 20+ years of experience building digital products and businesses. He previously led McKinsey's Corporate Venture and Design teams across Europe, and as Managing Director of a leading US digital agency he built platforms with Nike, Google, Meta, and Airbnb. He founded the UX Design program at Central Saint Martins College, University of the Arts London, and is a Fellow of the UK's Higher Education Academy. info.link is headquartered in Hamburg and Berlin and counts GS1 Germany among its investors.

Follow Max on LinkedIn.

Free Masterclass: Goodbye Barcode, Hello GS1 Digital Link

Background

FAQFrequently Asked Questions

What is GS1 Digital Link – and why should brands care?

What is GS1 Digital Link – and why should brands care?

How are brands using GS1 Digital Link for interactive marketing?

How are brands using GS1 Digital Link for interactive marketing?

Do I need to redesign my packaging from scratch?

Do I need to redesign my packaging from scratch?

What are the real-world benefits of GS1 Digital Link?

What are the real-world benefits of GS1 Digital Link?

How quickly can my brand get started?

How quickly can my brand get started?

Author

Max Ackermann

Get the free Masterclass

FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions