Markem‑Imaje has expanded its CoLOS software ecosystem with the launch of CoLOS 2D Activate and CoLOS 2D Engage, two SaaS platforms designed to help manufacturers meet fast‑approaching regulatory and retailer requirements while unlocking the commercial potential of connected packaging.

Supported by new expert consulting services, the offering provides a full pathway for brands preparing for GS1 Sunrise 2027 and the wider shift toward GS1 Digital Link QR codes.

The dual launch positions Markem‑Imaje as one of the first coding and marking suppliers to offer an end‑to‑end solution spanning readiness assessment, compliant code generation, digital content management and consumer‑facing experience design.

Preparing manufacturers for GS1 Digital Link

With retailers worldwide signalling their transition to GS1 Digital Link, manufacturers face mounting pressure to ensure production lines, data systems and coding processes are ready. Markem‑Imaje’s consulting service provides a structured readiness assessment, including a full‑day on‑site review of equipment, software infrastructure, data management and operational workflows. The resulting roadmap helps manufacturers identify gaps, prioritise investments and minimise disruption during implementation.

Viktor Hermansson, global marketing director at Markem‑Imaje, said the new solutions allow brands to turn compliance into opportunity:

“Our new CoLOS 2D Activate and CoLOS 2D Engage solutions enable brands to transform QR codes from a compliance requirement into powerful digital experiences that deliver real value to consumers.”

From coding to connected experiences

CoLOS 2D Activate manages the full lifecycle of GS1 Digital Link QR codes, from automated generation of static and dynamic codes to URL destination management, scan analytics and enterprise data integration. Manufacturers can embed GTIN, lot number, best‑before date, serialisation data and facility information directly into each code, ensuring compatibility with retail checkout, supply chain scanning and traceability systems.

CoLOS 2D Engage extends these capabilities to marketing teams, offering an intuitive drag‑and‑drop interface to build mobile landing pages, contests, multilingual experiences, loyalty journeys and contextual content that adapts to where, when and how a product is scanned. A consumer scanning a pack in‑store may receive promotional offers, while a scan at home can deliver recipes, usage tips or sustainability information.

By integrating data from CoLOS, ERP platforms, CRM systems and coupon or loyalty programmes, brands can maintain a single source of truth while delivering personalised digital experiences.

Supporting regulatory transparency

The platform also supports emerging regulatory frameworks including the European Digital Product Passport (DPP), FSMA, PPWR, Southeast Asian labelling requirements and GS1 Sunrise 2027. Manufacturers can link production data to a product’s digital identity, providing access to lot status, recall information, nutrition data and sustainability metrics.

A single platform for connected packaging

Supporting both pre‑print and inline printing environments, CoLOS 2D Activate and CoLOS 2D Engage allow manufacturers to launch pilot projects or scale to enterprise‑wide deployment. Combined with Markem‑Imaje’s consulting services, the platform offers a practical, end‑to‑end route to connected packaging — from readiness assessment through implementation and ongoing optimisation.

Markem‑Imaje will showcase the new solutions at PPMA Show 2026 (Booth C70) and PACK EXPO International 2026 (Booth S‑1614).