Tesco Eliminates Barcodes from Entire Food Range in UK Supermarket First

Tesco has begun replacing traditional linear barcodes with QR codes on its own-label sausages. The supermarket says the change will extend to other products and aims to improve information for shoppers.

How shoppers will experience the change

Customers can scan the new codes with a smartphone. Scanning reveals product details, including nutritional information and origin data.

The codes also provide traceability for ingredients. They can link to recipes, promotions, and occasional competitions.

Initial rollout and product details

The trial covers 13 sausage lines to start. Examples include Tesco Pork Sausages, Chipolatas, Cumberland and Lincolnshire varieties.

Tesco is working with supplier Cranswick for the sausage rollout. Checkout behaviour will remain unchanged for customers.

Benefits for retailers and the supply chain

For stores, QR codes improve visibility of remaining shelf life. That supports more accurate ordering and sharper stock control.

Better stock data helps cut unnecessary food waste. It also changes how recalls are handled by identifying affected batches precisely.

Recall management and customer protection

Retailers can block sales of specific batches at the till. They can also contact customers who have already purchased affected items.

These measures reduce the need to remove large quantities from shelves. They help maintain product availability for shoppers.

Leadership comments and industry reaction

Peter Draper, Tesco’s development and change director, said the shift will reduce waste and unlock digital benefits. He highlighted potential for personalised tools to help customers manage food at home.

Anne Godfrey, CEO of GS1 UK, described the move as a notable step for retail. She urged other businesses to adopt next-generation barcode standards for greater transparency.

Context and next steps

The initiative means Tesco eliminates barcodes on these packs in favour of QR codes. The company plans to expand the system across its entire food range over time.

This rollout represents a UK supermarket first in switching a full product range to QR codes. Filmogaz.com will monitor further developments.