Source-to-shopper solutions firm Checkpoint Systems has unveiled its new RFreshID fresh food solution. Using RFID technology, the solution is claimed to allow stores to accurately monitor inventory levels and rotate stock efficiency as produce with near or exceeded expiry dates can be identified with ease.
It enables retailers to manage inventory and plan when replenishments are required, as well as when stock needs to be marked down for sale. Checkpoint noted that customers using the solution have already seen food waste levels reduced by as much as 60%, while also minimising the time spent required to manually check merchandise by up to 78%.
Improvements in inventory accuracy were also noted, achieving up to 99.99% in the stock room and up to 99% on the sales floor. By improving cycle count times, reducing waste and accurately managing expiry dates, Checkpoint claims retailers will see an uplift in sales due to increased product availability.
Thanks to the application of Checkpoint’s RFreshID at source, retailers are able to receive RFID tagged products, that can be quickly verified, aiding a high inventory accuracy. To achieve this, Checkpoint’s RFID labels are automatically applied during the production process. This not only improves the accuracy of shipments distributed from the point of manufacture but ensures accurate, timely deliveries in store.
Whether its on shop floor or in stock rooms, Checkpoint’s RFreshID scanning process enables store personnel to use an handheld device that quickly and accurately counts and locates specific items. It works in conjunction with RFreshID reporting software to deliver real-time actionable data that includes insights on replenishment, expiration, markdown, waste reports, products to restock and order, as well as items that are about to expire or have expired.
Completing the cycle from delivery to disposal, RFreshID waste process provides insights into the amount of fresh produce that has expired and automatically removes the product from inventory records.
Mike French, UK Business Unit Director of Checkpoint Systems, commented: “The shelf life of fresh produce presents a unique challenge for grocery retailers. By improving inventory management and replenishment, retailers can not only see a marked improvement in stock rotation and sales but crucially reduce current levels of avoidable and costly food waste. RFreshIDTM delivers the highest level of accuracy and ensures retailers are putting forward the right price, at the right time on the right product.”
