In the era of integrated and frictionless experience, omnichannel retail has moved beyond being a trend to become a reality. Increasingly, consumers navigate through different shopping channels – online, physical stores, apps, and social media – expecting to find products available with convenience, speed, and security. In this scenario, technologies like RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) have played a key role in ensuring real-time inventory visibility, reducing losses, and improving customer experience.
According to Thiago Cergol, Business Development Manager of Solutions Group at Avery Dennison, the adoption of RFID tags has revolutionized logistics management and e-commerce. ‘By integrating an RFID tag into each product, it’s possible to create a unique digital identity. This allows tracking the item from the distribution center to final delivery with maximum transparency and security. This real-time visibility provides faster responses, prevents inventory errors, reduces human mistakes in stocktaking, and boosts process automation and efficiency,’ explains the executive.
The technology also facilitates integration between physical stores, distribution centers, and digital channels, enabling strategies like direct shipping from the nearest store and in-store pickup. ‘RFID provides a solid foundation for retailers to expand their online presence without compromising inventory control. Thus, physical stores can function as shipping points, speeding up deliveries and reducing logistics costs,’ adds Cergol.
More efficient supply chains: inspiring case studies
The impact of RFID technology can already be measured in real-world cases. In Brazil, Grupo Boticário implemented the technology to achieve end-to-end traceability in its complex supply chain. As a result, the company recorded a reduction of up to 97% in product shortages, over 50% increase in identifying hidden flaws, 14% reduction in labor, and significant revenue growth. ‘It was a complete transformation in agility, visibility, and efficiency,’ emphasizes Cergol.
Another example comes from Jetrosoft, a Colombian company specializing in customized technology and digital transformation. Faced with the challenge of enhancing traceability and logistics control for its clients, especially in the food industry supply chain, the company successfully implemented Avery Dennison’s RFID solutions. The adoption of this technology allowed Jetrosoft to automate processes, track assets like returnable plastic crates, and increase visibility across different points in the distribution network. The collaboration with Avery Dennison optimized the logistics operations of its clients, boosting efficiency and consolidating its market position.
Integrated sustainability: less waste, more innovation
Beyond traceability and efficiency, new solutions have enabled various companies to strengthen their environmental commitments, especially in logistics applications, including e-commerce.
According to Renato Rafael, Product Manager for Labels and Tags at Avery Dennison Latin America, solutions like Linerless labels are increasingly in demand for their operational and environmental benefits. ‘By eliminating the liner—the disposable backing of labels—we drastically reduce waste volume in logistics operations. This contributes to a lower carbon footprint, less water usage, and higher productivity in high-performance environments handling large order volumes, such as e-commerce distribution centers,’ he states.
Guided by growing sustainable demand, Avery Dennison continues expanding its portfolio of solutions in this regard. Beyond Linerless, the company launched in Brazil the Fasson® Thermal Dry 10% PIR label, the first in the market made with 10% post-industrial recycled content. Produced in partnership with Oji Papéis Especiais and recycling company Polpel, this solution is a milestone of the AD Circular program, which aims to enhance the circularity of materials used in labels by collecting discarded liners after the conversion process.
‘Supermarkets, logistics operators, and e-commerce are among the largest consumers of thermal labels. With the launch of a recycled alternative, free of Bisphenol A and certified by institutions like FSC®, we offer the market a more sustainable option without sacrificing performance. By reintegrating industrial waste into the production cycle, we provide a concrete example of circular economy in action—a significant step toward more responsible and efficient supply chains,’ concludes Renato.
