Using high-precision laser technology, the QR codes are now lasered directly and high-contrast on all four sides of the GN containers – a milestone in Rieber’s fully automated production line that sets new standards in production and organization.
Rieber is investing in the future: With the complete automation of the production line and the use of a state-of-the-art Trumpf laser machine, the Reutlingen-based company is setting new standards in the production and organisation of GN containers. A central element of this innovation is the “GS1 Digital Link” standard. In combination with the high-quality lasered and particularly durable QR codes, this new technology enables companies in the catering sector to have a state-of-the-art digital reusable organisation and precise traceability along the entire process chain – with specific information that can be accessed for each sequence.
Lasered QR codes: Durable, robust and precise
From removal from the washing system to laser-based labeling and stacking of the containers, the entire production process of GN containers at Rieber is carried out without manual intervention. Brand new in Rieber’s innovative production line: the high-precision Trumpf laser machine, which is now used to laser the QR codes directly, high-resolution and high-contrast on all four sides of the GN containers. This technological leap from glued-on to lasered QR codes, combined with precise scanning units, ensures that the codes can be captured both manually and automatically at the highest speed and accuracy – a decisive advantage for the CHECK TRACE reusable system in commercial kitchens and logistics processes.
While the attached labels often only last two to three years, the new laser-engraved QR codes are permanently abrasion-resistant, heat-resistant and chemical-resistant. This ensures the readability of the codes even after countless cleaning cycles in industrial dishwashers.
GS1 Digital Link: Complete traceability along the entire process chain
The lasered QR codes are not only robust, but also digitally networked: An individual GS1 Digital Link for each GN container is linked to the lasered QR code. This gives commercial kitchens real-time access to all relevant data such as places of use, cleaning cycles or the type of food transported. This guarantees comprehensive traceability along the entire process chain. This takes the respective participants in the process chain to specific, predefined websites that provide the specifically required information and data for their respective process phase. Unlike traditional URLs that only point to a single web page, the GS1 Digital Link, coupled with a GS1-compliant resolver service, allows access to different information via the same QR code – even in different languages and formats. This allows different applications to read the code and guide users to their respective relevant content.
In addition, the GS1 Digital Link offers flexible expansion options. Companies can make product-specific information such as nutritional information, preparation instructions or origin data accessible directly via the QR code – without the need to make changes to the code. This ensures maximum transparency and seamless integration into existing systems – from warehouse logistics to POS system connection to the end customer.
Other GN innovations: space saving, Fresh membrane and simplified handling
In addition to the technological advances in the production line, Rieber offers additional advantages with the new GNauto containers. Thanks to their space-saving design, they require up to 60 percent less storage space and can be destacked fully automatically. The special design prevents tilting and wedging, which makes manual handling easier and thus saves time and money.
In addition, the containers are compatible with the innovative Fresh membrane in the GN lid, which extends the shelf life of fresh produce and protects the food from oxidation.
Result
With the investment in the fully automated production line and the Trumpf laser machine, Rieber has made another technological leap towards the future. The lasered QR codes in combination with the GS1 Digital Link guarantee a multi-layered digital reusable organization and complete traceability. They offer commercial kitchens unprecedented transparency and security along the entire process chain.
