Driving the Digital Product Passport Forward: GoodsTag at the GS1 DPP Exchange Event in Cologne

On February 28, 2026, the GoodsTag team traveled to Cologne to participate in the GS1 Exchange DPP Event. Over two intensive days, our team immersed itself in the future of the Digital Product Passport (DPP), data interoperability, and the circular economy. We returned with a wealth of new insights, strategic industry alignments, and valuable connections.

Here is a detailed look back at our key takeaways and highlights from the event.

Day 1: Networking, Expert Insights, and Solution Pitches

The event commenced with a vibrant exhibition that provided a fantastic opportunity to engage directly with representatives from various industries, including the retail sector. The overarching message from the floor was clear: companies are actively seeking scalable, reliable DPP solutions. Our exchanges with potential customers and fellow innovators reinforced our belief that industry-wide collaboration is the true engine of technological progress.

Deep-Dive Discussions on Interoperability

The first day was further enriched by comprehensive discussions with leading experts from GS1, the European Commission, the Fraunhofer IPK Institute, CEN, CENELEC, and major industry associations. A central theme of these talks was data interoperability—a critical requirement to ensure that the Digital Product Passport functions seamlessly across international borders and diverse supply chains.

GoodsTag Takes the Stage

A major highlight for our team was participating in the solution partner pitches. Laurent Ovaert, our Specialist for Business Development, took the stage to present the GoodsTag platform and outline our technical vision for a transparent digital twin.

We were especially thrilled to be supported by Natalia Macia Bove from our partner, Bosch Power Tools, who joined us during the presentation to showcase the practical power of our collaborative approach and real-world application.

Day 2: Shaping the Future in Expert Circles

Moving into the second day, the setting transitioned into an intimate and highly focused environment. The GoodsTag team actively participated in expert discussions and targeted workshops designed to provide clarity on current regulatory frameworks and upcoming EU compliance mandates.

The Establishment of the Official GS1 Working Group

Perhaps the most significant development from Day 2 was the announcement that this expert circle has now been formally established as an official GS1 Germany GmbH working group.

This newly formed committee brings together key market participants, industry experts, and GS1 specialists to collaboratively design the practical implementation of the DPP, rooted in global GS1 Standards. GoodsTag is incredibly honored to contribute our technical expertise to this neutral platform, fostering innovation and driving standardized, industry-wide application.

Looking Ahead

Our trip to Cologne was an absolute success. We extend a special thank you to GS1 Germany for being an excellent host and for creating a productive space where the digital future of products can be shaped collectively. The GoodsTag team is already working to integrate these fresh impulses and regulatory insights into our ongoing platform development and client projects.

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