SATO, a pioneer in the Automatic Identification and Data Collection (AIDC) industry and a leader in barcode printing, labelling, and EPC/RFID solutions announced that it has successfully led the implementation of an integrated RFID system solution that enables MARS, a major supplier to the METRO Group in Germany, meet its RFID compliance requirements.

MARS, a worldwide manufacturer of confectionery and other food products, previously employed a “slap-and-ship” solution, i.e., printing on demand and applying an RFID tag on pallets just before shipping out. SATO’s RFID printing solution integrates with MARS’s WMS and ERP systems. This allows them to print RFID-encoded shipping labels at the end of the production lines and onsite in warehouses for goods destined for the METRO Group’s stores. SATO was chosen by MARS because its solution offering meets performance requirements and will offer justifiable returns.

SATO provides all solution components from hardware, to software, to integration, as well as the capability to bring together turnkey RFID solutions. SATO’s value propositions are attractive to suppliers worldwide looking for complete solutions to meet their RFID mandate requirements.

“As a Gold Partner of METRO Group since 2004, SATO has been actively working with IT and consulting companies on the development of RFID technology for METRO Group’s major suppliers. We are pleased to have this opportunity to work together with MARS, enhancing an already successful working relationship,” said Kaz Matsuyama, Managing Director of SATO International.

“In order to decide on the most suitable solution provider, we evaluated all candidates rigorously on their technical know-how, experience, turnaround time and price. SATO came out tops and met all our requirements. We, at MARS, are committed to enhancing the business relationship with SATO and we are confident relying on them to help us continue deliver at unprecedented levels of service,” added Katrin Weiß, Trade Logistics Development Officer of MARS Deutschland.

As major retailers continue to press forward with their RFID mandates, suppliers are beginning to recognize the broader benefits of RFID through supply-chain visibility and accuracy. End benefits for retailers and consumers, are clear: improved shelf replenishment, which leads to less out-of-stock occurrences, less shrinkage and other operational efficiencies.

Courtesy of SATO