7-Eleven to Become First C-store to Implement GS1 Barcodes

Move comes as fresh food focus strengthens.

April 18, 2017, 03:42 pm

IRVING, Texas — 7-Eleven Inc. continues to be among the technology leaders in the convenience channel.

The retail chain is rolling out scanning technology that will streamline the shopping experience for both consumers and traders. With the move, 7-Eleven joins the ranks for Bentonville, Ark.-based Walmart and Cincinnati-based The Kroger Co. to become the first convenience store retailer to use GS1 barcodes.

According to the retailer, improved supply chain visibility, accurate product information, product traceability, and efficient scanning technology ensure that store operations will run smoother than ever before.

In addition, the switch to GS1 technology comes as 7-Eleven strengthens its focus on fresh foods.

"More Americans are opting for a healthier lifestyle, and asking more questions about recalls and the overall safety of the food supply chain. 7-Eleven GS1 barcodes will push the food industry to move toward greater caution and allow consumers to better track and trace food," the company said.

Barcodes are symbols that can be scanned electronically using laser or camera-based systems. They are used to encode information such as product numbers, serial numbers and batch numbers. GS1 manages several types of barcodes. Each is designed for use in a different situation.

Irving-based 7-Eleven operates, franchises and licenses more than 10,700 7-Eleven stores in North America.