Going live
Who you'll work with to get QR codes live in your factory
If you know about the QR pilot, the next question is who does what. Getting a code onto every pack takes three kinds of partner working together: the packaging it sits on, the printer that prints it, and the system that connects and checks it.
Step 01
Packaging material suppliers
The surface the code lives on.
What they do
- Supply the films, labels, sleeves and trays the code is printed onto.
- Help redesign artwork so there is a clear, flat area for the QR code.
- Advise on substrates and finishes that give a good print grade and scan reliably.
Questions to ask them
- Where on this pack can a code sit that the line printer can reach?
- Will this material and finish take a sharp 2D code at line speed?
- Should any static data be pre-printed, leaving only batch and date for the line?
Step 02
Coding and marking printer companies
The kit that prints each code on the line.
What they do
- Supply thermal transfer, inkjet and laser printers that print changing data such as batch and use-by date.
- Confirm whether your current printers can print a 2D code, or need an upgrade.
- Set up print heads, ribbons and inks for a consistent, gradeable code.
Questions to ask them
- Can the printers we already have print a GS1 Digital Link QR at our line speed?
- What resolution and code size can we reliably reach on this material?
- Is a firmware update or a new print head needed?
Step 03
Integration and verification companies
The system that makes it all work together.
What they do
- Hold your product data in one central database, the single source of truth for every product, batch and date.
- Send the right data to the right printer for the product being run, so every pack gets the correct code automatically.
- Check every pack with a camera, confirming the code is present, correct and readable.
- Keep audit evidence that proves what was printed, and reject packs that fail.
Questions to ask them
- Where is our product data held, and how does the right data reach every printer without manual entry?
- How is every code checked on the line, not just a sample?
- What evidence will we have if a retailer asks us to prove it?
OAL Connected is certified by GS1 UK
Already an OAL customer?
For you it is very much a case of adding a QR camera to your existing OAL system. We then collect all the QR verification data alongside your normal traceability information.
OAL Connected works with all the leading coding and marking brands, so your current printers are the starting point. See how OAL helps
How the pieces fit
Packaging supplier
Artwork and pack
A clear, printable area for the code on every format.
Printer company
Printing the code
Batch and date printed as a QR code at line speed.
Integrator
Data and checking
Right data to every printer, every pack verified, evidence kept.
Not sure where you stand?
Take the two-minute readiness check to see which partners you need to talk to first.
Take the readiness check Or book a line assessment