Digital strategy · Consumer goods and food
QR Code Adoption Strategy for Consumer Goods
CPGS developed a QR code adoption roadmap for a major consumer packaged goods (CPG) company - interviews with more than 30 industry experts, retailer analysis and implementation benchmarking informed priorities for product traceability, data sharing and phased rollout
SITUATION
A major CPG company aimed to enhance product traceability through the implementation of QR codes in response to regulatory requirements and retailer mandates.
The industry faced increasing pressure to improve transparency, sustainability, and recall management, while retailers pushed for digitalization to streamline supply chains.
To stay competitive and compliant, the company needed a structured model to understand market adoption, key challenges, and potential benefits of implementing QR codes at scale.
PROJECT OBJECTIVE
Assess the current state of QR code adoption in the CPG industry, identifying leading players and key barriers to implementation.
Develop a roadmap for integrating variable QR codes into the company’s supply chain and product portfolio.
Align internal stakeholders on the strategic benefits of QR codes, including traceability, inventory management, and consumer engagement.
Provide actionable recommendations to prepare for regulatory requirements and retailer mandates.
WHAT WAS DONE
Conducted interviews with 30+ industry experts, including executives from leading CPGs and retailers.
Analysed global market trends and regulatory developments to assess the impact of upcoming policies on QR code adoption.
Examined retailer mandates and strategic priorities to understand the advantages they seek from QR codes and the key drivers behind their push for adoption.
Learned best practices from leading companies to identify successful strategies and key enablers for QR code adoption.
Assessed key barriers to adoption, including data standardisation, cost implications, and infrastructure upgrades.
RESULTS DELIVERED
Established a clear strategic vision for QR code adoption to position the company as a leader in digital traceability.
Identified priority product categories for early adoption, focusing on fresh produce, high-value items, and regulatory-sensitive goods.
Outlined key partnerships with technology providers and retailers to streamline data sharing and integration.
Delivered an actionable roadmap to achieve phased adoption by 2026, ensuring alignment with retailer and regulatory timelines.
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