The transition to 2D barcodes is quickly becoming one of the most important changes affecting product identification, data capture, retail, manufacturing, supply chain operations, and consumer engagement. As organizations prepare for the continued evolution toward GS1 Sunrise 2027, the conversation is moving beyond simply replacing traditional 1D barcodes. Companies are beginning to ask a much bigger question: How can the move to 2D create real business value?
AIM Global will explore that question during its upcoming Barcode Community Connect: Turning the 2D Migration Into Business Value, taking place virtually November 9–10, 2026.
This two-day virtual event will bring together technology providers, standards experts, end users, solution partners, and industry leaders to discuss both the practical challenges and emerging opportunities surrounding the transition to 2D.
Topics are expected to include areas such as:
- Preparing for GS1 Sunrise 2027 and the continued coexistence of 1D and 2D barcodes
- Developing practical 2D migration and implementation roadmaps
- Printing, verification, and barcode quality considerations
- Scanning and data capture requirements across different operating environments
- Using 2D barcodes to provide access to additional product and supply chain information
- Consumer engagement and connected product experiences
- Traceability, transparency, and regulatory applications
- Cybersecurity and QR code security considerations
- Lessons learned from early implementations
- How organizations can turn required technology changes into new operational and business opportunities
The goal of Community Connect is not simply to discuss the technology. AIM wants to bring together organizations that are actively working through these challenges so the industry can share experiences, identify best practices, and better understand how 2D technologies will impact the broader AIDC ecosystem.
Call for Speakers Now Open
AIM is currently seeking speakers and organizations interested in contributing to the program.
We are particularly interested in presentations that provide practical industry perspectives, implementation experiences, case studies, technical guidance, or lessons learned. End-user perspectives are especially valuable as organizations across retail, manufacturing, healthcare, food, logistics, and other industries begin preparing their systems and operations for greater adoption of 2D barcodes. Potential speakers do not need to have all the answers. One of the purposes of Community Connect is to create an environment where organizations can openly discuss the questions, opportunities, and implementation challenges they are encountering.
If your organization is working on 2D migration, barcode implementation, printing and scanning, traceability, product identification, connected packaging, cybersecurity, or another related area, AIM would like to hear from you.
Interested in speaking? Contact Michael Allen to share your proposed topic and how your organization could contribute to the conversation.
Join us November 9–10 as the AIM community looks beyond the migration itself and explores how organizations can turn the 2D transition into measurable business value.