The GS1 Global Forum 2025 took place in Noordwijk and Amsterdam, Netherlands, from February 17-20, 2025. Among the participants was Aykamar Malikgulyyeva, Chairwoman of GS1 Turkmenistan.
The forum, held in a hybrid format, featured plenary and breakout sessions. Participants were briefed on the implementation of current projects, as well as the organization's innovations and future plans. A priority topic of discussion was the further integration of digital technologies into GS1 activities across various sectors, particularly the transition to 2D barcodes for sustainable solutions.
Participants received an overview of the latest GS1 tools available to support the successful understanding and implementation of the GS1 standards system, as well as resources focused on the successful implementation of 2D and EPC/Radio Frequency Identification (RFID), including demonstrations of their use. Delegates were also introduced to the activities of leading global companies using 2D barcodes, such as GS1-based QR codes or GS1 DataMatrix, to enhance operational efficiency, improve consumer engagement, and promote sustainability.
In particular, the impact of next-generation barcodes in retail, at various stages of the construction value chain, as well as in healthcare, industry, transportation, and logistics was examined.
During separate sessions, real-world examples of Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications in Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) with the support of solution providers were presented. The role of GS1 in the CIRPASS II projects and the Global Data Synchronization Network (GDSN), the main priorities of GS1 Retail, and the achievements in the global LEI GS1 program were also discussed.
At the closing plenary session, the forum's results were summarized. A presentation was given by GS1 President and CEO Renaud de Barbuais, who shared insights from the GS1 Executive Committee and Board of Directors, as well as information from regional GS1 MO General Managers.
The GS1 Global Forum 2025 concluded with the presentation of the Everyone Makes a Difference Awards.