RFID Tech Slashes Food Waste and Theft in Global Retail Chains
Food waste is set to cost businesses a staggering $540 billion by 2026, with poor supply chain visibility playing a major role. Every year, wasted food already eats up 33% of revenues across the retail food chain. Now, new technology aims to cut these losses by improving tracking and freshness management.
Avery Dennison has rolled out the AD IdentiFresh inlay series, a set of RFID tags designed for real-time monitoring of fresh food. These compact inlays fit into existing label formats without disrupting workflows. Their proprietary antenna design ensures reliable performance even in cold, damp environments where items are tightly packed.
The tags can be applied by suppliers or in-store, offering flexibility for high-volume operations. They form part of Avery Dennison's Optica Food Solutions, which focus on boosting efficiency, extending freshness, and reducing spoilage. By early 2026, at least 12 major retailers—including REWE, Edeka, Aldi, Tesco, and Carrefour—had adopted the system, particularly for fresh produce, meat, and dairy.
Meanwhile, Checkpoint Systems launched SFERO RFID Checkout, the first theft-deterrent antenna built directly into checkout lanes. The system instantly identifies tagged items during theft attempts, giving staff precise data for faster intervention. Both solutions rely on advanced ICs, like Impinj's M800 series, to enhance readability and speed in busy retail settings.
The new RFID systems provide real-time visibility across the supply chain, from farm to shelf. Retailers using these tools can track stock more accurately, reduce waste, and respond quickly to theft. With major chains already on board, the technology is expected to spread further in the coming years.
