The implementation of RFID labeling technology into end-use products is no longer a concept. As major brands, such as Walmart, require brands to utilize RFID tracking capabilities, label manufacturers are tasked with designing new technology to meet demand. More and more converters are already discussing the addition of these capabilities in their facilities. Plus, brands and manufacturers alike are now embracing RFID for improved inventory management and supply chain efficiency. That trend is only expected to grow in the future.

Avery Dennison, along with Avery Dennison Smartrac, have invested significant resources into this burgeoning space. The technology is not only utilized for retail, as there are a host of applications taking advantage of the latest technology advancements.

“Overall, the RFID and smart labeling landscape is evolving rapidly, with increasing adoption, technological advancements, and a growing range of applications,” states DJ Lee, sales director, Avery Dennison. “These trends present significant opportunities for businesses to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance customer engagement. RFID is also expanding beyond traditional retail applications into areas like healthcare, logistics, automotive and food.”

According to Lee, the RFID market size and potential has been steadily growing over the years and is projected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of around 11-12% in the coming years.

Not only has cost traditionally been a barrier of entry, but the efficiency of the technology was always in question. Rapid technological advancements have made RFID and smart labeling capabilities more viable than ever before. This has led to greater investments in the label and package printing space.

“During the early days, users were worried about information security – an understandable reaction to any new, powerful technology,” explains Lee. “The RFID industry has worked together for a long time, preparing standards to ensure information security. Product capability continues to improve, too. New developments and innovations have driven product performance, robustness and enabled stable performance even in the harshest conditions. The combination of lower costs, simplified implementation, standardization efforts, and increased awareness has made RFID more accessible and attractive than ever before.”

While Avery Dennison had long been involved in smart labeling developments – particularly with a dedicated facility in Miamisburg, OH, USA – the acquisition of Smartrac further drove its capabilities in the space.

“The acquisition gave Avery Dennison a wider range of RFID products and technologies, allowing us to cater to diverse customer needs and applications,” comments Lee. “Smartrac had strong research and development capabilities. Combined with Avery Dennison’s existing expertise, this accelerated innovation in RFID technology, enabling the development of more advanced and efficient solutions.”

Due to its growing capabilities in smart labeling, Avery Dennison has ushered in a new wave of products to meet customer demand. For example, Avery Dennison has expanded the Impinj M800 Series.

“Avery Dennison has broadened its Impinj M800 series product family to include the AD Stealth and AD Sonic inlays and tags, offering improved performance and versatility for various applications,” says Lee. “We also offer plastic-free RFID Inlays and Tags, as Avery Dennison’s AD Pure range offers a more sustainable option with plastic-free inlays and tags designed for various applications, supporting clients’ recycling and waste reduction initiatives.”

Avery Dennison has also launched dual-frequency RFID inlays, which combine NFC (HF) and RAIN RFID (UHF) functionality for cost-effective item-level tagging, supporting applications in the retail, healthcare, logistics, and industrial sectors.

According to Lee, Avery Dennison will continue to bolster its smart offerings in the future. As Avery Dennison drives sustainability and the advancement of a circular economy, RFID technology will continue to see advanced implementation.

“RFID technology acts as a powerful enabler for sustainability by promoting efficiency, reducing waste, and facilitating a more circular economy, he says. “As the technology continues to advance and become more widely adopted, its potential for driving sustainability across various industries is significant.”