ESLs or the Electronic Shelf Labels are not at all a new technology. They’ve been around for over two decades now.
In recent years the technology has, however, achieved new heights.
First ESLs were launched in France in 1991. Hence Europe got on the bandwagon a lot before the rest of the world.
Today, Europe is the largest market holder for ESLs, followed by central Asia (particularly China) and North America.
What is an Electronic Shelf Label?
As the name suggests, these electronic gadgets are primarily meant for labelling shelves.
Traditionally, retailers used paper labels to display pricing on the shelves. However, with the introduction of ESLs, the retailing experience changed for good.
With all the goodness of paper labels and the added digital features, ESLs are being accepted in the modern world.
Speaking of the benefits, it can offer – the first thing to remember is cost-cutting. Using ESLs instead of paper labels comes more economically. And not to mention that it also helps reduce paper waste, thus promoting a greener retailing business.
What is NFC?
Now, this might be something that you would know better. Near-Field Communication systems, aka NFCs, use short-distance radio frequencies for communicating between devices.
You must have seen many Insta Reels or Youtube videos where users tap their phones against another device to communicate.
Now, this technology has come to help ESLs.
How?
Keep reading to know more.
NFC Integration with ESLs
Electronic shelf labels and Near-Field Communication are two different technologies. However, together they can be an excellent method for retailers to overcome business challenges.
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That being said, NFC-enabled digital tags have become a necessity, more than an augmentation.
For example, the retailers can compete with the bigger eCommerce giants by leveraging digital technology. Besides, these tags can also benefit users, considering the current pandemic situation.
On the one hand, the consumers prefer not to go out or make any contact with the outside world. On the other hand, consumers still need a personalized shopping experience.
It is worth mentioning here that NFC creates a link between the product, the label, and the consumer. And all this is benefitting the retailers in overcoming the challenges they face today.
Let’s explore what other benefits does this technology has to offer.
Benefits for Retailers
ESLS integrated with NFC technology can offer a faster and more efficient way to manage the inventory on and off the shop floor.
- With the help of NFC technology, retailers can easily rearrange products when needed.
- Likewise, the retailers can also track product replenishment more conveniently.
Benefits for Customers
It’s not only the retailers who can enjoy the benefits of NFC integrated ESLs. Consumers also benefit from it by accessing the needed product information. It includes:
- Pricing
- Allergens in food products
- Ingredients; and
- Safety information for using the product
To sum it up…
NFC-enabled electronic shelf labels are a good investment for sure. It not only promotes a greener alternative to all the paper waste but also improves customer experience. And not to mention, during this current pandemic situation, these labels are acting as a link between physical and digital shopping experiences.
Ingrid Maldine is a business writer, editor and management consultant with extensive experience writing and consulting for both start-ups and long established companies. She has ten years management and leadership experience gained at BSkyB in London and Viva Travel Guides in Quito, Ecuador, giving her a depth of insight into innovation in international business. With an MBA from the University of Hull and many years of experience running her own business consultancy, Ingrid’s background allows her to connect with a diverse range of clients, including cutting edge technology and web-based start-ups but also multinationals in need of assistance. Ingrid has played a defining role in shaping organizational strategy for a wide range of different organizations, including for-profit, NGOs and charities. Ingrid has also served on the Board of Directors for the South American Explorers Club in Quito, Ecuador.
