An EAN (European Article Number) barcode is a standardized barcode symbology used globally for product identification in retail and other industries. It consists of a series of black bars and white spaces, usually accompanied by a numerical code that uniquely identifies a specific product. EAN barcodes enable quick and accurate product scanning at various points in the supply chain, including retail checkout.
The EAN barcode system was invented by George J. Laurer, an American engineer, in the 1970s. It was introduced by the International Article Numbering Association (now known as GS1) to provide a universal method for product identification and inventory management.
As of now, there are countless EAN barcodes in use globally, covering a vast array of products across various industries. Here are five interesting facts about EAN barcodes:
- Standardized Format: EAN barcodes follow a standardized format, consisting of a start code, a series of data digits representing the product code, a check digit for error detection, and stop codes. This format ensures consistency and interoperability across different systems and regions.
- Variants for Different Product Types: EAN barcodes have variants such as EAN-13 and EAN-8, which accommodate different lengths of numerical codes. EAN-13 is used for standard-sized products, while EAN-8 is used for smaller items where space is limited.
- Global Adoption: EAN barcodes are widely adopted worldwide and are recognized by retailers, manufacturers, and logistics companies across different countries and regions. This global adoption facilitates seamless trade and commerce.
- Integration with Product Information: EAN barcodes can be linked to product databases containing information such as product name, description, price, and inventory levels. This integration enables retailers to manage their inventory more effectively and provide accurate product information to customers.
- Continuous Evolution: While the basic principles of EAN barcodes remain unchanged since their invention, there have been advancements in barcode technology over the years. For example, GS1 DataBar, a more recent barcode standard, allows for encoding additional product information such as expiry dates and serial numbers in a smaller space.
For more information about EAN barcodes and their applications, you can visit getabarcode.co.uk.
