FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
GMA Supports Deferring GS1 DataBar Implementation for Coupons, Calls for Industry Comment
Contact:
Scott Openshaw, Director, Communications, 202-295-3957
Brian Kennedy, Director, Communications, 202-639-5994
June 18, 2009
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) today issued the following statement with regard to industry readiness for the implementation of the GS1 DataBar on coupons:
The GS1 DataBar readiness survey was disseminated mid-March 2009 to the industry to solicit feedback pertaining to retailer/manufacturer readiness for the January 1, 2010 implementation of the GS1 DataBar on coupons.
The response data from this survey suggests that removal of the UPC-A barcode beginning January 1, 2010 will create a significant hardship for many retailers who may not be equipped to scan the new GS1 DataBar by this date. For this reason, the Joint Industry Coupon Committee (JICC) recommends that the UPC-A barcode not be removed from coupons beginning January 1, 2010. The JICC recommends a deferred implementation date of January 1, 2011 to help ensure that the industry has enough time to prepare for proper implementation of the GS1 DataBar.
The JICC recommendation to defer implementation should not dissuade ready retailers that are eager to capitalize on the additional capabilities of the DataBar from beginning to scan the new symbol on or before January 1, 2010.
The JICC is currently soliciting comment from industry stakeholders on the deferred GS1 DataBar implementation date. The review period runs through July 17, 2009. Stakeholders are encouraged to contact Logan Kastner at lkastner@gmaonline.org or 202-637-8065 to share additional feedback.
The Joint Industry Coupon Committee works to increase efficiency and effectiveness in the development, distribution and redemption of coupons. It is comprised of individuals from retailers and manufacturers who oversee coupon programs and includes representatives from GMA, Food Marketing Institute, National Grocers Association and National Association of Chain Drug Stores.
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Based in Washington, D.C., the Grocery Manufacturers Association is the voice of more than 300 leading food, beverage and consumer product companies that sustain and enhance the quality of life for hundreds of millions of people in the United States and around the globe. Founded in 1908, GMA is an active, vocal advocate for its member companies and a trusted source of information about the industry and the products consumers rely on and enjoy every day. The association and its member companies are committed to meeting the needs of consumers through product innovation, responsible business practices and effective public policy solutions developed through a genuine partnership with policymakers and other stakeholders. In keeping with its founding principles, GMA helps its members produce safe products through a strong and ongoing commitment to scientific research, testing and evaluation and to providing consumers with the products, tools and information they need to achieve a healthy diet and an active lifestyle. The food, beverage and consumer packaged goods industry in the United States generates sales of $2.1 trillion annually, employs 14 million workers and contributes $1 trillion in added value to the economy every year.
Related GMA Documents dealing with - COUPONS
NEWS RELEASE
- August 11, 2009 Consumer Packaged Goods Industry: Deferred Implementation Date for GS1 Coupon DataBar Necessary
- June 18, 2009 GMA Supports Deferring GS1 DataBar Implementation for Coupons, Calls for Industry Comment
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