Markem-Imaje has introduced its CoLOS 2D Activate and CoLOS 2D Engage Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) enterprise solutions, aiming to enable global CPG and FMCG brands to create, organize, activate and manage static and dynamic GS1 Digital Link QR codes.
Supported by Markem-Imaje’s consulting services, the company seeks to provide manufacturers with a complete solution to prepare for GS1 Sunrise 2027, meet evolving regulatory and retailer requirements. The platform allows manufacturers to deploy compliant 2D codes while delivering personalized consumer experiences, collecting first-party insights and supporting future digital product initiatives.
The CoLOS 2D Activate gives manufacturers full control of GS1 Digital Link QR codes after printing through digital content management, URL destination management, scan data analytics and enterprise data integration. CoLOS 2D Engage enables marketing teams to design, publish and manage personalized consumer experiences through a drag-and-drop interface.
Markem-Imaje adds that the platform provides detailed analytics showing how consumers interact with products across locations and over time. Key features include automated generation of compliant static or dynamic GS1 Digital Link QR codes aligned with SKU and GTIN data; management of Digital Link QR codes, associated digital content and reporting for products active throughout the supply chain; and packaging integrity controls and vision inspection to ensure barcode quality.
The platform can be integrated with production systems to embed dynamic product and manufacturing data including lot number, best-before date, serial number and manufacturing facility information, enabling point-of-sale scanning and a range of consumer engagement applications, as well as automated synchronisation with ERP and other business systems to eliminate manual data entry.
CoLOS 2D Activate and CoLOS 2D Engage also support both pre-print and inline printing environments, enabling manufacturers to launch pilot projects or scale to enterprise-wide deployment.
Back in May, Xaar launched the Black version of its Versatex printbar at interpack 2026, said to bring high-definition black 1D and 2D variable data printing to existing analogue label presses and finishing lines. Xaar says the new printbar delivers precise code printing supporting applications such as serialization, personalization, authentication codes and supply chain tracking.
More recently, Polytag and DataLase are combined their technologies to help customers apply GS1-compliant QR codes to challenging packaging substrates including films, foils, metals and coated surfaces. On the production line, a laser activates a pigment within the coating and produces a permanent, indelible QR code – negating the need for additional inks or consumables.
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