Retailers are being urged to embrace RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), to help gain a competitive advantage.
‘Practical RFID in Retail’ - a joint British Retail Consortium/DTI half-day event, hosted more than 80 delegates from the retail sector. Retail speakers provided a practical insight into the reality of using RFID in UK retailing.
Delivering the Opening Address, the Rt Hon Alun Michael MP, minister of state for industry and the regions said: “The retail trade is vital to our economic prosperity. The supply chain is becoming more complex and RFID will help make it easier for companies at all stages of the supply chain to become more efficient by freeing up resources and increasing productivity.”
Organised by retailers for retailers, the event provided an opportunity to assess the business case for RFID. Beyond the hype, RFID, it was said, has huge potential for improving the efficiency of the supply chain. In addition, it can help with improving availability, managing stock levels and gathering accurate data on products.
BRC director general Kevin Hawkins urged retailers to consider the potential of RFID. “One of the biggest challenges retailers face today is to ensure that their shelves are kept fully stocked to meet customer needs. Supply chain problems can lead to consumer dissatisfaction and needless waste”, he said. “RFID offers a long-term solution. This is an idea whose time has come and which undoubtedly works.”
Delegates heard from retailers already trialling the technology, and the event provided an insight into RFID on cartons, totes and high value items. With both case study presentations and hands-on demonstrations, the event helped retailers looking to implement the technology who need to understand the practical implications and contribution to the business case.
