GS1 UK has announced the election of Vikas Shah as Chair following a vote by members at the organisation’s 50th annual general meeting on 3rd November. 

He succeeds Chris Tyas, who steps down after eight years as Chair and more than 22 years of involvement with GS1 at both a UK and global level. 

Shah brings experience spanning business, public service, governance, technology and academia. He is the founder and former CEO of Swiscot Group, a textile business with clients across retail and the NHS and has experience in the use and application of GS1 standards. 

He takes on the role as GS1 UK prepares for the next phase of its strategy amid a period of significant change across industry, including the transition to QR codes powered by GS1, the emergence of digital product passports, increasingly connected supply chains and the growing role of artificial intelligence.

He says: “I am honoured to have been elected chair of GS1 UK at an important moment for industry. “The opportunities and challenges facing organisations today increasingly come back to data. Whether it is transparency, traceability, sustainability, digital trade or artificial intelligence, success depends on being able to identify, capture and share trusted information consistently."

“For more than 50 years, GS1 standards have provided the common language that helps businesses do exactly that. They are not an obstacle to progress. They are what make progress possible."

“As every sector becomes more digital, I believe GS1 UK has an increasingly important role to play in helping organisations navigate change, build trust and make better use of the information that powers modern business. I am looking forward to working with our members, partners and colleagues as we build on the strong foundations already in place and begin GS1 UK’s next chapter.” 

Anne Godfrey, Chief Executive at GS1 UK, says: “Vikas brings entrepreneurial experience, strong governance credentials and a practical understanding of how standards are used by businesses."

“He understands the challenges organisations are facing and the role trusted data can play in helping them respond. As we look ahead to the next phase of our strategy, his perspective and experience will help us continue supporting our members while strengthening our role as a trusted partner to industry and government.” 

2026 RTIH Innovation Awards

QR codes were a key focus area at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards.

Check out our winners here.

The awards celebrate global retail technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world. Our winners were revealed at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards Ceremony, taking place at The HAC in Central London on Wednesday, 4th November.

The event consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, awards ceremony presided over by award winning stand-up comedian, presenter, actor and broadcaster, Aurie Styla, and after party until 1am.