Product Classification Initiative

Effective product classification is a key enabler of efficient electronic commerce.  Although Global Trade Item Numbers (GTINs) uniquely identify a product in the supply chain, product classification is what gives that product global context and meaning.  The two international systems most commonly used to classify products and services in supply chains are the GS1 Global Product Classification (GPC) and the United Nations Standard Product and Services Code (UNSPSC).  

Industry interest in data synchronization through the Global Data Synchronization Network (GDSN) has created an effective platform for leveraging product classification in the meat and poultry supply chain. The GPC code is a mandatory attribute when publishing products in a GDSN-compliant data pool. Product classification is used as a tool for sourcing new products, performing spend analysis, creating a global category management reference tool, and facilitating product admission at international borders. 
 
When mpXML first examined the GPC and UNSPSC code sets, they found very limited functionality for distinguishing key differences among meat and poultry products.  Over the course of several face-to-face meetings and regular teleconference sessions, mpXML's members identified the product classification attributes that are most critical to the meat and poultry supply chain, and formalized those into change requests for UNSPSC and GS1.  Both change requests were accepted, and the UNSPSC meat and poultry classification codes were updated in March 2007 and the GS1 Global Product Codes were updated in November 2008.  These expanded code sets have allowed the meat and poultry industry to be the first fresh foods sector to leverage product classification for subscribing to new product information in GDSN-compliant data pools, granular product sourcing, and expedited product admission pilots at international borders. 

Periodically, mpXML will review and recommend further refinements to the UNSPSC and GPC classification code sets to ensure that they are effectively meeting industry classification requirements.