Checkpoint's New Software Boosts Flexibility
Navigating the new world of radio frequency identification (RFID) is rough, and Checkpoint Systems Inc. wants to make it an easier ride.
The Thorofare, N.J.–based Checkpoint debuted the Open EPC Number Management Solution software on Jan. 18 for retailers and manufacturers seeking to make their RFID operations more flexible.
Checkpoint’s cloud-based software will allow manufacturers and retailers to deal with almost any manufacturer of RFID tags, which will reduce headaches for these companies, said Alan Sherman, director of marketing/merchandise visibility for Checkpoint.
RFID has loomed larger on manufacturers’ radar screens for the past few years since Walmart started using RFID technology to track pallets in its warehousing and shipping. Last year, RFID made a serious splash on Walmart’s shop floors. In July, the retail giant demanded that all of the men’s basics it sells must have RFID tags. The Macy’s stores in New York will reportedly make similar RFID requirements this year. “RFID is still in its early stages,” Sherman said. “But at the same time, it is becoming more influential in apparel.”
With increased demand, more retailers and manufacturers are buying more RFID tags. However, there’s more than supply-and-demand issues with RFID tags. Since retailers and clothing manufacturers often must move their product to stores at lightning speed, they need RFID-tag manufacturers to move as quickly as they do manufacturing RFID tags.
But many clothing manufacturers find they must buy RFID tags from more than one group. Tags made by different groups often have a hard time functioning together, Sherman said. Checkpoint’s Open EPC Number Management Solution program offers a system where any RFID tag can be read in a standard interface and where its information can be delivered in an accurate manner when delivered to the shop floor.—Andrew Asch
