EAN – what is it?
EAN, standing for European Article Number (though now globally referred to as International Article Number), is a standard barcode system used worldwide to uniquely identify products in retail and other sectors. These barcodes, often found on product packaging, contain a series of numbers that provide specific information about the item, facilitating inventory management, sales tracking, and supply chain efficiency. Within the framework of Foodcom S.A.’s operations in the food, feed, and industrial sectors, the EAN is crucial for product identification, tracking, and international trade compliance.
Most common questions
1. Why is EAN important in the B2B food, feed, and industrial sectors?
In the B2B context, especially in industries managed by Foodcom S.A., the EAN serves as a universal identifier, ensuring accuracy in ordering, invoicing, and delivery. It simplifies processes, reduces the potential for errors, and aids in the swift recognition of products across various stages of the supply chain.
2. How does the EAN system work?
An EAN barcode typically consists of 12 to 13 digits. These numbers encode information such as the product’s country of origin, manufacturer, and specific item details. Scanning the barcode with a reader decodes this information, instantly providing details about the product to systems or users.
3. Can a product have both an EAN and another type of barcode?
Yes, a product can have multiple barcodes depending on its distribution and sales channels. While the EAN is widely accepted globally, some regions or specific industries might use other barcode systems. It’s essential for businesses, like those in Foodcom S.A.’s network, to use the appropriate barcodes for their target markets and purposes.
4. How are EAN codes assigned to products?
Companies typically obtain EAN codes from official numbering organizations associated with the Global Standards One (GS1) network. After registering and providing necessary company and product details, they are assigned unique EAN codes for their products, ensuring no two products in the world share the same identifier.
5. How does Foodcom S.A. utilize EAN in its operations?
Foodcom S.A. leverages the EAN system to streamline its inventory management, order processing, and delivery tracking. By ensuring all products in its catalogue have appropriate EAN codes, the company ensures accurate and efficient transactions, facilitates international trade processes, and upholds the highest standards of product identification and traceability.
