Understanding NFC technology: what is NFC and how does it engage customers?
Want to break creative boundaries on the shop floor? NFC technology is your golden ticket. You can use it to pioneer groundbreaking interactive in-store experiences and to keep customers informed and supported on their buying journey. Our retail tech experts show you how…
What is NFC?
Let’s start with the basics! NFC (Near Field Communication) is a proximity-based, short-range wireless communication technology. It allows you to transfer data between two NFC-compatible devices — like an NFC chip and a smartphone or tablet — by bringing them within a distance of 4 cm or less.
An NFC inlay usually consists of three main parts: an NFC chip to store/process data, an antenna to send/receive the data, and a base for them to sit on. NFC chips are encrypted, making them an excellent choice for secure wireless transmissions.
What is NFC used for?
NFC technology is commonly used for contactless payments (think Apple Pay and Google Pay) because it's super secure. It's also used for easy Bluetooth pairings and device connections.
NFC is also used in retail alongside RFID (radio-frequency identification) technology. When you pair these two chips together in one inlay, like our DUÉ Dual Technology Labels, you get twice the benefit — the inventory accuracy and sales data of RFID with the interactivity of NFC.
How to use NFC in retail
Be transparent about sustainability
Want to show how serious you are about sustainability? Put your targets, commitments, and results right at your customers' fingertips with an NFC-enabled RFID hang tag. Encode the NFC chip to take customers to a webpage, environmental report, or video so they have all the necessary info to shop according to their personal sustainability goals.
Give detailed product information
Smarter buying choices start with better information. Use your NFC-enabled garment labels to give customers more detailed product information before they hit the checkout. This could include thorough care and repair instructions with video tutorials, full value chain details, or info on the garment materials and how to recycle them.
Create interactive in-store experiences
NFC was made for interactive in-store experiences. Pop an NFC tag onto product displays to give customers instant access to reviews or in-depth product info. You can use NFC tags to guide customers around the store or give them personalized promotions and discounts. You can even use NFC to create augmented reality experiences for your customers to engage with.
Upsell with on-demand product and styling inspiration
Did you know your labels could help in-store sales teams upsell to customers? Include a fun ‘tap your smartphone for style inspiration’ tag and encode your NFC to take shoppers to an online lookbook, social media #StyleInspiration hashtag, or recent runway show.
You can even couple dual technology NFC/RFID labels with interactive fitting room mirrors. These can show shoppers complementary garments and accessories, give them stock info on the garment they’re trying on, and can even be used to request staff assistance.
