Print in the Channel - issue #23

RFID

CONTINUED

Reseller conversations When talking to customers about RFID solutions and printers, resellers should highlight certain aspects. Deyon says resellers should highlight the benefits of RFID technology. “There is enhanced data storage: RFID tags can store more information than traditional barcodes, including maintenance history and item status,” he says. “There is also improved accuracy and efficiency as RFID tags can be read from a distance and do not require a direct line of sight, allowing for faster and more accurate inventory management. “RFID technology also enables real-time tracking of assets and inventory, reducing discrepancies and improving operational efficiency.” Deyon adds that use cases should also be discussed. “For instance, in retail it can enhance product availability and optimise order management with uninterrupted traceability within the supply chain,” he says. “Meanwhile in healthcare RFID can be used to track patient wristbands and medical equipment efficiently. “In manufacturing, users can manage inventory and assets with detailed information about each item's location, usage history and maintenance schedule. It is also ideal for tracking and tracing.” Suchi adds: “The ROI and cost savings should speak for themselves, such as a 50-80% decrease in distribution centre costs, up to 50% reduction in theft, and significant labour savings through automation,” she says. “Additionally, I recommend highlighting accuracy improvements. These can include inventory accuracy up to 99% in some cases, 50% fewer price markdowns, and minimised human error. Finally comes the operational benefits, which include real-time inventory visibility, faster counts, automatic replenishment and optimised shipping and receiving. “For customers it can reduce checkout

times and ensure better product availability across physical and omnichannel shopping. On the business side, there is enormous potential for scalability and integration, with existing systems, growth capability, and compatibility with IoT and AI for future-proofing.” Future The growth of RFID labelling is expected to continue. “RFID is expected to grow in 2025, particularly in sectors such as retail, healthcare, logistics and automation in smart environments,” says Deyon. “With advancements in extended range, data security, data transfer speeds and real-time analytics, RFID will become increasingly indispensable.” Indeed, the global RFID market is projected to exceed $25 billion by 2033, growing at 9.1% annually, according to MarketsandMarkets, Suchi notes. “The technology has moved beyond early adoption to become a standard business tool, particularly in retail, manufacturing and healthcare,” she says. “I believe that companies that fail to embrace this technology risk losing significant competitive advantages in efficiency, accuracy, and customer service capabilities.” Several factors are driving the growth. “Integration with IoT and blockchain is expanding RFID's applications, while increased adoption by small and medium businesses highlights its growing accessibility,” Suchi adds. “The cost of RFID tags has also dropped significantly, making the technology more scalable than ever. “Emerging trends like AI-driven solutions, enhanced customer engagement tools, and a focus on sustainability are shaping the future of RFID. Additionally, initiatives such as Digital Product Passports, starting in the EU and spreading globally, are set to further drive adoption, underscoring RFID's critical role in enabling transparency and circularity in supply chains.”

RFID is expected to grow in 2025, particularly in sectors such as retail, healthcare, logistics, and automation in smart environments. “ ”

Deyon Antoine product marketing manager

toshibatec.co.uk

50

Powered by