No Source Tagging? No Problem! Silion Tech Provides RFID Solutions for Multi-Brand Stores

Author：2025-05-06 15:12:40

Retailers and multi-brand vendors constantly seek ways to improve inventory accuracy, reduce shrinkage, and enhance the customer experience. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tagging has emerged as a powerful tool to achieve these goals. However, not all vendors can implement source tagging—where RFID tags are embedded during manufacturing.

 

So, what happens when source tagging isn’t an option? How can multi-brand vendors still leverage RFID technology effectively?

 

In this blog, we’ll explore:

· The challenges of RFID adoption without source tagging

· Best practices for in-store tagging

· How to manage multi-brand RFID tagging efficiently

· Real-world benefits of RFID for retailers

 

Let’s dive in!

Why Source Tagging Isn’t Always Possible

Source tagging is ideal because it embeds RFID tags at the point of production, ensuring consistency and reducing manual labor. However, many retailers and vendors can’t rely on source tagging due to:

 

1. Multi-Brand Sourcing – Vendors work with multiple brands, some of which may not support RFID tagging.

2. Supplier Resistance – Some manufacturers refuse to adopt RFID due to cost or logistical concerns.

3. Legacy Inventory – Existing stock may lack RFID tags, requiring retrofitting.

4. Custom Tagging Needs – Different products may require unique tag placements for optimal scanning.

 

Since source tagging isn’t always feasible, retailers must implement alternative RFID tagging strategies.

Best Practices for In-Store RFID Tagging

If vendors can’t rely on source tagging, they must apply RFID tags at the store or distribution center level. Here’s how to do it efficiently:

1. Choose the Right RFID Tags

· Hard Tags: Best for high-theft items (e.g., apparel, electronics), combining security and durability.

· Soft Labels: Ideal for non-metallic products (e.g., clothing, accessories), offering a lightweight, cost-effective solution.

· Waterproof & Durable Tags: Necessary for items exposed to moisture (e.g., cosmetics, sports gear), ensuring reliability in harsh environments.

2. Optimize Tag Placement

· Avoid Metal & Liquids: These materials can interfere with RFID signals—test tags on similar products first.

· Consistent Positioning: Place tags in the same spot for easy scanning (e.g., inside apparel neck tags or on product packaging edges).

· Test Before Full Deployment: Ensure tags are readable at different angles and distances to avoid blind spots.

3. Streamline the Tagging Process

· Use Automated Encoding: Speed up tag programming with RFID printers that can encode EPC (Electronic Product Code) data in seconds.

· Batch Tagging: Apply tags in bulk at distribution centers rather than individual stores to reduce in-store labor costs.

· Train Staff Effectively: Provide clear guidelines on how to attach tags correctly and troubleshoot scanning issues.

4. Integrate RFID with Inventory Systems

· Sync RFID data with your POS (Point of Sale) and ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems for real-time inventory tracking.

· Use RFID-powered dashboards to monitor stock levels, identify misplaced items, and generate automated replenishment alerts.

Managing Multi-Brand RFID Tagging

Handling RFID for multiple brands introduces complexity. Here’s how to maintain efficiency:

1. Standardize Tagging Across Brands

· Enforce a uniform tagging policy for all products, even if brands don’t provide tags. For example, specify tag type, placement, and encoding rules.

· Use brand-agnostic tags that work across all product categories, minimizing compatibility issues.

2. Implement a Centralized RFID Database

· Store all RFID data in a cloud-based system accessible to all stores and distribution centers.

· Assign unique EPC numbers to each item to avoid duplication and ensure accurate tracking from receipt to sale.

3. Work with RFID-Savvy Partners

· Collaborate with third-party logistics (3PL) providers experienced in RFID tagging to streamline supply chain operations.

· Demonstrate the ROI (Return on Investment) of RFID to reluctant brands—e.g., reduced shrinkage and faster inventory audits—to encourage adoption.

Real-World Benefits of RFID for Multi-Brand Vendors

Even without source tagging, RFID delivers tangible advantages:

 

1. Improved Inventory Accuracy (Up to 99%): Eliminate manual counting errors with automated scanning, ensuring real-time stock visibility across all locations.

2. Faster Stock Audits & Replenishment: Scan hundreds of items in seconds during cycle counts, reducing audit time by 70% compared to manual methods.

3. Reduced Shrinkage & Theft: Track item movements with precision; hard tags deter shoplifting, and “last-seen location” data aids in theft investigations.

4. Enhanced Omnichannel Fulfillment: Accurate stock data enables seamless BOPIS (Buy Online, Pick Up In-Store) and curbside pickup, meeting modern consumer expectations.

5. Better Customer Experience: Avoid out-of-stock scenarios and long checkout lines with self-checkout options enabled by reliable RFID scanning.

Silion Tech: Your Partner for RFID Success Without Source Tagging

Source tagging may be the gold standard, but multi-brand vendors can still thrive with strategic in-store or distribution center tagging. By choosing the right tags, optimizing processes, and integrating with inventory systems, retailers can unlock RFID’s full potential—without relying on manufacturers.

Silion Tech’s end-to-end RFID solutions are tailored for these challenges. We offer: 

· High-performance tags (hard, soft, and specialized designs) for every product type

· Handheld scanners and fixed readers for fast, accurate inventory counts

· Cloud-based software that syncs with your existing POS and ERP systems

· Customizable workflows for batch tagging, loss prevention, and real-time analytics

 

Whether you’re a small boutique or a large multi-brand chain, our scalable solutions boost efficiency, reduce costs, and future-proof your inventory management. No source tagging? No problem. Let’s implement RFID the smart way—together.

 

Contact us today to discuss how Silion Tech can transform your retail operations.