A premium store runs on its item file. If your product cannot be scanned at receiving and at the register, someone has to key it by hand, and that someone will remember you for it.
What a store needs
One barcode per sellable unit, and it has to be yours. Every size and every flavor is its own item with its own code. A code borrowed from another company's prefix, or one code shared across two flavors, will fail the first time a store tries to set you up.
If you sell by the case, the store may also ask for a case code so the dock can receive without opening the box.
Where brands go wrong
- One code for a whole range, with flavors told apart by the label.
- A barcode printed too small, on a curve, or over a seam, so it will not scan.
- Changing the size or the formula and keeping the old code.
To get UPC barcodes for your products, license your product numbers (GTINs) through GS1 US for a one-time fee of $30 each, or get a GS1 Company Prefix for 10 products starting at $250 upfront and $50 per year. Within minutes of payment, GS1 US emails you access to its online portal, where you can assign your numbers and download barcode artwork for your packaging. Get started with GS1 US
Check it yourself
Print the label, wrap it on the real pack, and scan it with a phone and with a handheld scanner if you can borrow one. Then scan it again cold and wet, the way it will sit in a cooler.
Do this
List every item you sell, one row each, with its barcode, size and case pack. That one page is the start of the item data every buyer will ask you for.
Applied to this season's trends
Fiber frenzy and protein + fiberRealThe brand takePosition against a familiar staple, with taste and convenience leading and fiber supporting the proposition.
Clean proteinRealThe brand takePosition your product against the snack it would replace, such as a meat stick or protein bar.
Terroir's new territoryRealThe brand takeLead with products where origin creates a difference shoppers can taste, such as region-specific olive oil, honey, chocolate or coffee.
Functional beveragesRealThe brand takeThe functional claim alone is no longer enough.Written for The Shelf Signal from general trade practice. Check the details with your own advisors.