GS1 Week 1 Paper

1. Overview of GS1 standard usage
According to GS1 (2014), GS1 standard has now been considered as a common set of standards, a common language and identifiers which can be used for warehouse and production management inside a company, and improving external visibility through the supply chain. According to Bhatt et al. (2013), GS1 Standards provide a common platform for structuring and sharing product information globally. GS1 Standards used in the foodservice industry include Global Location Numbers (GLNs) for location identification, Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs) for product identification, the use of bar codes (GS1-128) for data capture and the utilization of the Global Data Synchronisation Network (GDSN) for the sharing of product

For instance, GS1 MOs provide GDSN Certified Data Pool services and product sample information to their trading partner communities, which offer accuracy validations of the data. For example, with the implementation of Global Data Synchronisation (GDS), Mitchells & Butlers are able to identify any errors and verify the data before it enters their database ensuring the receipt of accurate product data at all times. Furthermore, better visibility of stock and fewer product information errors are also achieved. Additionally, Mitchells & Butlers’ suppliers also benefited from the adoption of GDS. Such benefits can also be suitable for most

As a result, SMEs who use GS1 standard can achieve operating cost reduction, productivity and product quality improvement. (Schwägele, 2005; Smith et al., 2005; Regattieri et al., 2007)Furthermore, company growth can be achieved with the help of enhanced consumer confidence and employee pride. For instance, small growers, who are part of Pro*Act began using GS1 standards under the PTI, indicated that switch to GS1 was expensive, but facilitated trade, relationships, and markets with their customers. And customers also started to require the use of GS1 (Bhatt et al, 2013). Moreover, with GS1 Standards, restaurant owners and managers are able to maintain more accurate, comprehensive records of their purchases, deliveries and