GS1: Global Standards for Products and Data

GS1 is a non-profit organization that helps companies speak the same language. Its mission is simple: to create global standards that make the value chain more efficient and transparent across all sectors.

The history of GS1 began with the merger of EAN (European Article Number) and UCC (Uniform Code Council). From this union, the GS1 network was born, now present in more than 100 countries. Together, these organizations (such as AECOC GS1 in Spain) are responsible for applying and updating GS1 rules that guide business communications.

Thanks to this work, we now use tools as common as the barcode or Electronic Data Interchange (EDI). These systems make it possible to identify products, manage invoices, orders, or dispatch advices, and share information quickly and reliably.

Put simply, GS1 standards are a universal language that connects manufacturers, distributors, and consumers. A simple yet essential system that enables businesses worldwide to operate in a coordinated way.

In Europe, the GS1 network is made up of 47 countries that share best practices to improve the value chain.

The European network consists of working groups and experts dedicated to analyzing processes and developing interoperability across countries.

In addition, at the European level, GS1 initiatives must comply with EU regulations. Globally, there are 108 organizations in 150 countries.

Standards in messages are structured rules designed for widespread application within an industry. They can be used by companies of any size or sector.

Standards help simplify business processes. They also ensure information flows clearly between companies and reaches consumers worldwide.

When standards are applied to product codes, companies reduce costs. This is possible because the entire supply chain operates in a coordinated and consistent manner.

Verified by GS1 is GS1’s global initiative that serves as a trusted product registry. The goal is for every product to have a unique code, called a GTIN (Global Trade Item Number). It must also include a minimum set of mandatory data that identifies it in the market.

GS1 rules follow the principle of non-ambiguity: every product variation must have a unique and easily recognizable code.

Thanks to these identification standards, companies avoid errors when exchanging information and can identify any product quickly and securely.

GS1 organizes its standards within a simple and universal framework: Identify → Capture → Share. This model ensures that data on products, locations, assets, and transactions are unique, machine-readable, and fully interoperable across business partners and systems worldwide.

The first step is to assign GS1 Identification Keys (ID Keys) that guarantee uniqueness and prevent ambiguity throughout the value chain. GS1 defines 12 keys for different objects, for example:

The supply chain requires clear communication among all parties to ensure products arrive on time and in good condition to the end customer.

Thanks to barcodes and standardized information, product identification and subsequent distribution are carried out unambiguously, securely, and quickly. These standards also make it possible to detail the movement of goods and track their location and status at all times.

Every product has its own unique identifier, making it easy to locate at any point in the supply chain. Knowing the condition of the goods from dispatch, through transportation, to final delivery provides valuable information that supports customer service.

GS1 Identification Keys (ID Keys) are the core of the GS1 system. These standards assign every product, location, shipment, or asset a unique, global identifier. This prevents confusion and ensures that companies can exchange information consistently throughout the supply chain.

These keys can be used in any sector, including retail, healthcare, logistics, food, and e-commerce. They are governed by the GS1 General Specifications, which define how to correctly create, assign, and maintain these codes.

Main GS1 Identification Keys

In the healthcare sector, GS1 standards improve patient safety and enable the tracking of each product from the manufacturer to the final patient.

Their application covers all stages of the supply chain: manufacturers, wholesalers, hospitals, pharmacies, logistics providers, public entities, and patients.