The GS1 Global Forum 2025 kicked off on February 17th in Noordwijk, a Dutch city 50 kilometers from Amsterdam. The event has gathered representatives from all GS1 divisions, including the head of GS1 Turkmenistan, Aykamar Malikgulyeva, alongside leaders of other national organizations.

The plenary session, themed "The Retail Revolution: The Impact of 2D Barcodes and Reliable Data", featured welcoming remarks from GS1 President and CEO, Renaud de Barbuat, and GS1 Chairman, Mark Batenic. They shared an inspiring vision for GS1's future, marking the start of its next 50 years.

The first day of the Global Forum, under the banner of "Digital Transformation", was packed with sessions held both in-person and virtually. Participants delved into the transformative potential of next-generation barcodes for the retail sector. A key focus was on how global industry leaders are leveraging 2D barcodes, such as GS1-based QR codes and GS1 DataMatrix, to boost operational efficiency, enhance customer engagement, and drive sustainability.

Delegates received insights into real-world applications of how these innovative barcodes are revolutionizing retail operations, delivering significant value to both businesses and consumers.

The sessions explored various topics, including: GS1's role in the CIRPASS II projects and the Global Data Synchronization Network (GDSN), the core priorities of GS1 Retail, achievements of the global LEI GS1 program encompassing 24 GS1 member organizations (MOs).

Attendees had opportunities to engage with solution providers on the use of GS1 Digital Link, explore the potential of GS1 registries and Verified by GS1 certification in tackling key industry challenges, learn about the significance of standards across the construction value chain, and discover real-world applications of artificial intelligence and API in EDI.

An interactive "FUNdamentals" session provided newcomers with a solid grounding in GS1 and its standards.

The Global Forum is scheduled to run until February 20th.