GS1 Canada is a neutral, not-for-profit, industry-driven organization that enables the development and implementation of global standards for electronic business and supply chain processes.

As a member organization of GS1, GS1 Canada manages the GS1 System of standards in Canada and ensures that every bar code issued is globally unique. GS1 standards are open, global and non-proprietary, and any organization from anywhere around the world can subscribe to this system. GS1 bar codes are the only non-proprietary bar codes based on an open system of standards developed by industry, allowing organizations of all sizes to participate in electronic commerce.

As a not-for-profit organization, our work is funded primarily through membership fees, which are established on a cost-recovery basis. Membership costs are associated with developing, facilitating, implementing and maintaining of a vast repertoire of global industry standards.  GS1 Canada’s not-for-profit status and fee structure levels the playing field, allowing small businesses to better compete with their global counterparts.