In the fast-paced world of retail, efficient inventory management has become more critical than ever. Faced with the challenges posed by new trends such as in-store availability and market needs, for example, inventory accuracy and theft control in stores, inventory control systems must be digitized and adapted to cutting-edge technologies.

RFID technology thus, emerges as a catalyst to transform inventory optimization. This article details how RFID has become the best practice for general merchandise inventory management and reveals the Checkpoint solutions that are leading the change.

Why should using RFID be a best practice for General Merchandise Inventory Management?

The adoption of RFID in General Merchandise Inventory Management offers a range of strategic advantages for retailers. Creating a complete and transparent view of the entire supply chain is key. Here are some ways that RFID technology can help to extend and improve inventory control:

  • Inventory accuracy: This technology enables stock control in real time. Products labeled with RFID tags can be quickly and automatically read for more accurate maintenance. This will undoubtedly help to reduce errors and minimize discrepancies between theoretical and actual stock.

 

  • Real-time visibility: In-store availability is one of the trends set by major retail companies. Consumers quickly demand the location and quantity of products available in-store to select those that are available. At the corporate level, decisions can be made and areas with low inventory turnover or availability problems can be detected quickly and effectively.

 

  • Anti-theft management: RFID tags can identify and promptly notify potential thieves, adding an extra layer of security to safeguard products.

 

  • Operational efficiency: This technology streamlines the processes of receiving goods, restocking shelves, and inventory audits. By automating these tasks, valuable time and resources are freed up, allowing staff to focus on more strategic endeavors, such as enhancing customer experience. Notably, efficient shelf restocking ensures consistent product displays in stores, directly contributing to securing sales. This capability ensures that products are always available for customers, positively impacting their purchasing experience and overall satisfaction.

Create a complete and transparent view of your entire supply chain

Checkpoint Systems' is launching a new General Merchandise portal, committed to leading Inventory Management that will guide step by step throughout the process, leveraging its expertise as a specialized RFID provider. To ensure compatibility with RFID, they will follow 5 simple steps, facilitating the transition to technology implementation. Customers embracing RFID can potentially reduce out-of-stock incidents by 90% and witness an average increase in sales ranging from 1.5% to 5.5%. (Source: Measuring the impact of RFID in retailing - Professor Adrian Beck) 

The key to overcoming challenges in General Merchandise Inventory Management lies in establishing a comprehensive and transparent view of the supply chain. This tool enables a thorough understanding of supply chain dynamics, enhancing visibility and enabling real-time tracking of product movements from the manufacturing facility to the shopper.

"RFID labeling outside of the apparel and footwear categories is vastly different because the scale of business is generally greater with fewer SKU’s involved and often the labeling takes place on high-speed production lines vs manually tagging of clothing. Checkpoint is uniquely suited to serve these needs with our experience around RF labeling of many of these products, our relationships with packaging companies serving the CPG industry, and our relationship with CCL Label which also serves many of the CPG companies. " says David Cregar, Business Development Manager.

RFID Top Solutions for General Merchandise

Checkpoint Systems has developed specific RFID solutions to address the unique challenges of general merchandise inventory management:

  1. RFID tags for General Merchandise: RFID tags offer thorough product traceability from production to the point of sale. This eliminates the necessity for in-store labeling, thereby reducing labor costs and improving the customer experience. We provide two key benefits: firstly, we boast a diverse and flexible portfolio suitable for any product type, as we produce our tags, enabling us to cater to specific customer requirements. Secondly, we offer global capability to integrate tags at the source, ensuring products are tagged from the manufacturing site and optimizing RFID throughout the entire supply chain process.

 

  1. SFERO™, RFID EAS system: The SFERO™ system by Checkpoint provides an additional layer of security while optimizing in-store inventory efficiency. The combination of RFID and EAS (Electronic Article Surveillance) strengthens theft protection and ensures product availability in-store. Adapting to SFERO's distinctive features, what distinguishes it from other RFID and EAS systems is its modularity. This allows us to customize our solution for any type of store, covering up to 10 meters of open entrance. This is especially beneficial in retail sectors like fashion, where design aesthetics are crucial, as SFERO minimizes the visual impact that traditional anti-theft systems may have on store entrances.

 

  1. RFID solutions for distribution centers: Checkpoint Systems offers RFID solutions specifically designed for distribution centers, ensuring total traceability from warehouse to store. This improves operational efficiency and optimizes inventory management throughout the supply chain. It's worth emphasizing that our extensive portfolio is also adaptable to various distribution center setups, including tables, tunnels, and more. This versatility ensures that our RFID solutions seamlessly integrate into diverse distribution center environments.

 

  1. ItemOptix Inventory Solution by Checkpoint Systems: Improves operational efficiency by automating essential processes such as receiving goods, restocking shelves, and conducting inventory audits. This technology streamlines tasks, saving valuable time and resources for staff. Automation enables personnel to redirect their focus toward strategic activities, such as enhancing the overall customer experience.

In conclusion, adopting RFID technology for general merchandise inventory management is essential for survival and success in the competitive world of retail. Checkpoint's innovative solutions address current challenges and anticipate and prepare retailers for future market demands. Discover the potential of RFID technology and Checkpoint Systems’ meticulously designed solutions that optimize operations and enhance traceability in the exciting journey toward the future of general merchandise inventory management.