QR Codes: The Future of Global Trade – An Interview with QR TIGER CEO Benjamin Claeys on the GS1 Revolution

QR TIGER is a leading QR code generation platform, founded by CEO Benjamin Claeys. In this interview with TechBullion, the CEO talks about the platform and how it offers advanced solutions for businesses, such as MENU TIGER and GIFTLIPS, that utilize GS1 QR codes to connect products with digital information. This brings advantages like improved consumer engagement and supply chain efficiency. However, businesses may face challenges when integrating GS1 QR codes, but can overcome them by partnering with compliant providers and educating employees and customers. With the enhanced capabilities of GS1 QR codes, they are expected to transform global commerce and logistics. Businesses can bridge the technological gap without excessive costs by taking a strategic approach to adoption. QR technology, especially GS1 QR codes, emphasizes security and data protection. At QR TIGER, the platform offers expert guidance and customized solutions for different industries such as healthcare, retail, and logistics. In the future, there is potential for even further expansion into areas like smart packaging, interactive marketing, digital identity verification, and blockchain-powered traceability.

Please tell us more about yourself?

I’m Benjamin Claeys, founder and CEO of QR TIGER,  a leading QR code generator platform.  I am an architect, before transitioning into technology and entrepreneurship, establishing QR TIGER and developing  advanced QR code solutions such as MENU TIGER, GIFTLIPS, QRT-GS1and TIGER FORM

When I’m not at work, I love spending time in nature. It’s my sanctuary, a place where I find peace of mind and reconnect with the deeper reality that makes us human. I also prioritize staying active, practicing sports daily to keep fit. Regular exercise not only enhances my well-being but also helps me stay focused and perform better in both work and daily life. I practiced capoeira when I was younger and still like this as part of my daily exercise. I also like to be part of communities as startup grinds to help fellow entrepreneurs on their journey. 

What are GS1 Digital Link QR codes? And with GS1 QR codes set to replace traditional barcodes by 2027, what do you see as the biggest advantage for businesses adopting this transition early?

GS1 Digital Link QR codes are advanced QR codes that connect products to digital information through a standardized format set by GS1, the global organization behind traditional barcodes.

Unlike traditional barcodes that only store numerical data (like a product’s GTIN), GS1 Digital Link QR codes provide a gateway to dynamic online content such as product details, traceability data, promotions, and more. They enhance product transparency, improve consumer engagement, and streamline supply chain operations.

Businesses adopting this transition early can enhance Customer experience,and boost operational efficiency through omnichannel integration. This ensures a smooth transition giving them a competitive edge over those who will transition late. 

What are the key challenges businesses might face when integrating GS1 QR codes into their supply chains, and how can they overcome them?

Businesses integrating GS1 QR codes may face challenges such as upgrading systems, managing standardized data, and training staff to adopt the new technology. Additionally, ensuring consumer awareness, handling transition costs, and maintaining cybersecurity can be concerns. However, these challenges can be overcome by partnering with GS1-compliant providers, implementing phased adoption strategies, educating both employees and customers, and investing in secure, scalable digital infrastructure.

Given the enhanced capabilities of GS1 QR codes, such as tracking, authentication, and consumer engagement, how do you think they will reshape global commerce and logistics?

GS1 QR codes are set to transform global commerce and logistics by enabling a smarter, more connected supply chain. With advanced capabilities like real-time tracking, authentication, and dynamic consumer engagement, they go beyond traditional barcodes to enhance transparency, reduce fraud, and optimize operations. As a leader in QR code innovation, I see this shift as a game-changer—businesses that adopt early will gain a competitive edge through improved efficiency, seamless omnichannel integration, and stronger consumer trust in an increasingly digital marketplace.

Some businesses still rely on legacy systems that may struggle to scan and process QR codes. How do you foresee companies bridging this technological gap without excessive costs?

Companies can bridge the technological gap by taking a strategic, phased approach to QR code adoption, ensuring they maximize efficiency without excessive costs. Many legacy systems can be upgraded with software patches, middleware solutions, or cloud-based integrations, allowing them to process GS1 QR codes without a full hardware overhaul. At QR TIGER, we’ve seen businesses successfully transition by starting with pilot implementations, leveraging hybrid solutions, and working with GS1-compliant providers to future-proof their operations while keeping costs under control.

QR codes provide access to a wealth of product information and personalized experiences for consumers. How can brands use this to enhance trust, transparency, and customer loyalty?

QR codes give brands a direct channel to engage consumers with real-time, personalized experiences that build trust and transparency. By linking to verified product origins, authenticity checks, and sustainability efforts, brands can demonstrate accountability and strengthen consumer confidence.

Privacy and data security are growing concerns in the digital space. How does QR technology, particularly GS1 QR codes, ensure the safety of consumer and supply chain data?

QR technology, especially GS1 QR codes, is designed with security in mind, ensuring safe and controlled access to digital information. By using encrypted URLs, secure redirection, and compliance with global data protection standards, businesses can prevent unauthorized access and mitigate cybersecurity risks. At QR TIGER, we emphasize the importance of secure QR code generation, dynamic data management, and advanced access controls, ensuring that both consumer and supply chain data remain protected while delivering seamless and trustworthy digital experiences.

QR TIGER has been at the forefront of QR code innovation. How is your company helping businesses seamlessly transition from traditional barcodes to GS1-powered QR codes?

At QR TIGER, we are committed to making the transition from traditional barcodes to GS1-powered QR codes as seamless and efficient as possible for businesses. Our platform offers GS1-compliant QR code generation with advanced features like dynamic data management, secure redirection, and API integration, ensuring compatibility with existing systems. We also provide expert guidance, customized solutions, and scalable implementation strategies, helping businesses future-proof their operations while maximizing the benefits of GS1 QR technology.

With industries such as healthcare, retail, and logistics set to benefit from GS1 QR codes, how does QR TIGER tailor its solutions to different sectors’ needs?

At QR TIGER, we understand that different industries have unique requirements, which is why we tailor our GS1 QR code solutions to meet specific sector needs. In retail, our dynamic QR codes enhance consumer engagement with product authenticity, promotions, and loyalty programs, while in logistics, we enable real-time tracking and supply chain visibility for greater efficiency. Our flexible, GS1-compliant platform ensures businesses across all sectors can seamlessly integrate QR technology into their operations

Looking ahead, how do you envision QR codes evolving beyond the supply chain? Are there new frontiers where QR TIGER is planning to expand its influence

QR codes are rapidly evolving beyond the supply chain, becoming an essential tool for seamless digital interactions across industries. We see tremendous potential in areas like smart packaging, interactive marketing, secure digital identity verification, and even blockchain-powered traceability. At QR TIGER, we are continuously innovating—exploring AI-driven QR solutions, enhanced data analytics, and deeper integrations with IoT and AR technologies to redefine how businesses and consumers connect in an increasingly digital world.

*On February 26th, 11 AM EST, we are hosting a Webinar: Understanding GS1 QR Codes and How to Prepare for the Future of Data Sharing which will be hosted by Melissa, Head of QR TIGER’s Enterprise division and Ned Mears, Global Standard Director of GS1 US.