Tesco, the UK’s largest supermarket, is trialling a significant change to its checkout process by replacing traditional barcodes with QR codes on 12 of its own-brand fresh produce and meat products. This initiative, covering about 20% of Southern England stores, is part of a collaboration with 10 suppliers and GS1, the organization overseeing global barcode standards. The new QR code system aims to enhance customer experience by providing additional product information via mobile phones, such as nutritional details, use-by dates, and alternative suggestions. Tesco sees this as a way to overcome packaging limitations and better communicate with consumers. This shift aligns with a broader industry trend, as traditional barcodes—over 50 years old—are gradually being replaced. Almost half of UK retailers have updated their checkouts to support QR codes. Separately, discount chain Home Bargains is introducing AI-powered cameras at self-checkouts to combat shoplifting. The AI system will detect if items are not scanned and alert staff. Experts note that the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the public’s adaptation to QR codes, which now offer consumers more detailed product information and support evolving retail demands.