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~ Lorna Leaver ~
GTIN reuse ends on 31 December 2018
COLUMN
Here’s why and what it means for you

CAN I REUSE MY GS1 GLOBAL TRADE ITEM NUMBER (GTIN)?
Ensuring that product
identification is truly
unique in both the
Lorna Leaver, engagement manager at GS1 UK, explains the reasons behind the recent changes to the well
physical and digital
know GS1 GTIN standard.
realm is vital for
today’s omni-channel
consumer experience.
ot so long ago, if you were in the apparel or grocery Keeping product identification truly unique in both the
That’s why GTIN reuse physical and digital world is vital in supporting consumer
sectors, you could reuse a GTIN either 30 months
had to stop.
Nor 48 months after its initial issuance. omni-channel experiences.
However, in the age of e-commerce once a GTIN is assigned At the start of 2019, the standards governing GTIN reuse were up-
to a product, it could be associated with it online forever. This dated, stating that GTINs should never be reused. This infographic
result has been a great deal of complications. helps to explain the benefits associated with ending GTIN reuse:

Putting an end to GTIN reuse will mean:

Reduced consumer Increased Better
confusion in the market transparency brand visibility
and supply chain data for the consumer online
exchange systems

Enhanced More efficient after-sale Improved
product consumer uses of the GTIN sales
traceability to underpin warranties, analytics
maintenance, repairs

The industry is evolving. That’s why we’re asking you to stop If you need any help or advice regarding the reuse of GTINs,
reusing your GTINs immediately. contact our GS1 UK support team at: [email protected].

Prepare yourself for
the coming deadline!

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You can access our
GTIN Management Standard here,
and we’re always here to offer a
helping hand with any queries.

Find out everything you need to know about how GS1 standards can help your business and how to implement them correctly at...
www.gs1uk.org/support/our-standards/discover-gs1-standards