For more than 50 years, GS1 standards have been transforming the way we work and live. Today, they power the supply chains of millions of organisations worldwide, allowing them uniquely identify, describe and track anything, creating greater trust in data for everyone.
The construction industry faces significant challenges in becoming more efficient, increasing safety, improving productivity and lowering costs. New legislation further amplifies the need for consistent, accurate and reliable data on materials and management across the entire supply chain.
GS1 standards offer a powerful tool for overcoming these challenges, providing a universal, global language – a system of unique identifiers such as Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINS) and barcodes. This system enables capturing and sharing vital information on products, places, assets and materials.
The use of GS1 standards in construction supports offers a range of transformative benefits, including:
Comply with legislation
GS1 standards play a critical role for achieving the golden thread of data, as outlined in the Building Safety Act. They allow materials to be identified and tracked as they move through the supply chain, ensuring that key data is consistently captured and accessible at every stage. This aligns with upcoming regulatory changes to the EU’s Construction Product Regulation (CPR), which supports the adoption of Digital Product Passports (DPP).
Trusted data, better decisions
With GS1 standards, data becomes a trusted resource for informed decision-making. Having full visibility of inventories, in real time, prevents shortages, reduces waste and lowers costs.
Traceability throughout the lifecycle
GS1 standards ensure complete product traceability. This empowers stakeholders to track materials from the point of manufacture through to demolition, facilitating responsible waste management and promoting circular building practices. By embracing GS1 standards, the construction industry can build a safer, more efficient, and sustainable future.
At GS1 UK, we’re committed to working with industry leaders to implement these standards.
Let’s build a better tomorrow, together. Learn how here.
