Below, we answer common questions about smart packaging, from evolving GS1 standards for Sunrise 2027 and retailer RFID compliance requirements to optimizing design and consumer engagement.
Every brand’s packaging, product, and retailer requirements are different. If you’d like to talk through your specific use case, schedule a 15-minute Q&A session with our RFID and smart packaging experts. Book a FREE 15-min Smart Packaging Q&A Session!
What is Sunrise 2027 and How Should Packaging Teams Prepare?
The GS1 Sunrise 2027 initiative aims to make the transition to accepting 2D barcodes at point-of-sale (POS) by the end of 2027. Packaging teams should begin working with a trusted partner, such as FineLine, to upgrade packaging with high-performance 2D codes, ensuring reliable scanning through proper size, contrast, quiet zones, and print quality.
How are 2D Barcodes Different from Traditional Barcodes?
Traditional barcodes use a series of vertical lines and spaces to encode data horizontally typically storing up to 85 information characters, making them suitable for applications requiring basic data. Two-dimensional barcodes offer far greater data capacity in the same physical space. 2D Barcodes can include batch numbers, expiration dates, sourcing details, and more. They may also provide marketing links for consumer engagement, all accessible through a simple scan.
RFID vs. Barcodes: Which Should be Used for Packaging?
RFID and 2D barcodes are complementary technologies that enable unique item-level identification. RFID supports rapid, non-line-of-sight bulk reading to improve inventory accuracy and operational efficiency, while 2D barcodes enable point-of-sale transactions, consumer engagement, authentication, and the capture of critical product attributes including lot, batch, and expiration data—particularly important in regulated and consumable categories. Together, they transform packaging into a unified data carrier that connects supply chain operations with consumer experiences.
What is RFID-Integrated Packaging and How Is It Different?
RFID-integrated packaging offers a seamless way to meet retailer requirements without sacrificing brand aesthetics. Instead of adding stickers that disrupt the design, RFID tags can be embedded directly within the packaging, preserving valuable marketing space and creating a cleaner, more cohesive appearance. This approach allows brands to maximize their messaging while maintaining a sleek and professional look.
Partner with FineLine
Whether implementing 2D barcodes to prepare for GS1 Sunrise 2027 or deploying RFID to meet retailer mandates, leading brands choose FineLine for expertise in data management and compliance. FineLine delivers cost-effective, single-source RFID-integrated and smart packaging solutions that meet retailer and industry standards without compromising your brand.
With industry-leading encoding accuracy, strong data integrity, and item-level serialization across RFID-enabled retailers, FineLine helps brands move from pilot programs to full production with confidence.