The GS1 GPC (Global Product Classification) is a standardized framework used to categorize products in a consistent way across the global supply chain. It helps businesses, trading partners, and marketplaces organize, compare, and analyze product information effectively.
Standardized classifications enable efficient interoperability throughout digital supply chain environments. GS1 Global already has a browser lookup function at https://gpc-browser.gs1.org/ that enables use to lookup GPC information. In Q1 2025, GTIN.cloud will integrate generative AI within the product data screens to help users identify the appropriate GPC for their products.
Key Features of GS1 GPC
Key Features of GS1 GPC
Product Hierarchy: GS1 GPC organizes products into a hierarchy with four levels
- Segment: Broad industry category (e.g., Food/Beverage/Tobacco).
- Family: Product grouping within the segment (e.g., Beverages).
- Class: Specific product type (e.g., Soft Drinks).
- Brick: The most granular level, detailing the product (e.g., Cola).
Example of GS1 GPC Hierarchy
- Segment: Food/Beverage/Tobacco (10000000)
- Family: Beverages (11000000)
- Class: Soft Drinks (11100000)
- Brick: Cola (11111111)
Benefits of GPC
- Improved Data Accuracy:
- Enhanced Product Discovery:
- Supply Chain Efficiency:
- Regulatory Compliance:
- Interoperability:
The GS1 Global Product Classification (GPC) system is designed to streamline product categorization and ensure consistency across the supply chain. To use GS1 GPC effectively, businesses must first identify the appropriate GPC Brick Code for their products. This involves reviewing the GPC hierarchy, which organizes products into Segments, Families, Classes, and Bricks. For example, a bottled cola beverage would fall under the Segment "Food/Beverage/Tobacco," the Family "Beverages," the Class "Soft Drinks," and the Brick "Cola." Companies can reference the GS1 GPC schema, available on GS1's website, to find the correct code that matches their product's characteristics and intended use. Once assigned, the GPC code becomes a universal identifier for the product category, aiding in data standardization and communication.
Integrating GS1 GPC into business operations enhances efficiency and clarity in data sharing. Companies can use GPC codes in conjunction with GTINs (Global Trade Item Numbers) to provide detailed and standardized product information. This is particularly useful for retail, e-commerce, and regulatory compliance, where accurate product categorization is essential. GPC codes enable advanced filtering, searchability, and analysis by marketplaces and trading partners, facilitating product discovery and comparison. By leveraging GPC, businesses can ensure that their products are categorized consistently across platforms, streamlining procurement, inventory management, and analytics processes.