Jet Tech Group and Fujifilm UK are urging folding carton converters across the UK and Ireland to assess their readiness for the rollout of 2D codes, by participating in the UK Folding Carton Digital Readiness Benchmark 2026.
Sunrise 2027 is a major global retail initiative led by GS1 aimed at standardising on 2D barcodes at the point of sale. The primary target date for retailers to upgrade their systems to read these codes is October 2027.
To support the folding carton industry through this transition, Jet Tech Group and Fujifilm UK have launched the UK Folding Carton Digital Readiness Benchmark 2026. This is the first independent industry benchmark designed to help converters assess their preparedness for digital production, variable data workflows, and 2D code implementation.
"The move to 2D codes is more than a compliance milestone. It is reshaping how folding cartons are produced,” says Steve Andrew, Managing Director at Jet Tech Group. “Many converters are still working out what this means operationally and commercially. The Benchmark is designed to give the industry a clear, independent view of where it stands, alongside practical insight into the opportunities ahead."
Sunrise 2027 pilots are already being run in 48 countries that represent 88% of the world's GDP. This includes the UK, where retailer Tesco has notably already begun introducing 2D QR codes on items ranging from fresh sausages to garden plants.
For folding carton converters, the transition away from linear 1D codes to data-rich 2D codes sits alongside the added complexity of support for variable data, ongoing growth in shorter runs, and increased demand for customised and personalised packaging.
Converters participating in the UK Folding Carton Digital Readiness Benchmark 2026 will gain a competitive advantage and receive early access to the report ahead of its wider publication. This is to include a confidential personalised comparison against anonymised peer data and insight into how their business compares with wider industry readiness.
Results from the UK Folding Carton Digital Readiness Benchmark 2026 will be revealed live at The Next Frontier, an exclusive event to be hosted at the Fujifilm Innovation Centre in Luton on 14 July 2026.
Supported by Fujifilm, XMPie, Imprint MIS and Plockmatic Group, the event will feature the first UK public demonstration of the Fujifilm Revoria PC2120 alongside insight, guidance and practical discussion around the operational impact of GS1 Sunrise 2027 and the transition to digital and 2D code production.
Steve said: “We look forward to welcoming UK folding carton converters at The Next Frontier and working with them to embrace the opportunities and potential presented by Sunrise 2027.”
Converters can complete the five-minute UK Folding Carton Digital Readiness Benchmark here.
Places for The Next Frontier event in 14 July are limited. Registration is available here.
The Next Frontier takes place on 14 July at:
Fujifilm Innovation Centre, 251 Capability Green, Luton LU1 3LU
Two sessions are available on the day and take place at 10am to 12pm and 1.30pm to 3.30pm.Folding carton converters can select their session during registration.