Checkpoint Systems introduces dual-function EAS-EPC labels

Checkpoint Systems, Inc., a manufacturer and marketer of identification, tracking, security and merchandising solutions for the retail industry and its supply chain, has announced the introduction of the Evolve family of labels, the company's new dual-function EAS-EPC labels for security and inventory management applications.

The company said in a statement: ‘Representing the industry's first truly integrated electronic article surveillance (EAS) and radio frequency identification (RFID) labeling product, the new dual-function labels are designed to help retailers improve their inventory visibility at case and item level, while at the same time maximize the benefits of their EAS security systems.’

‘With the introduction of the Evolve labels, we are now able to provide our customers with a product that combines the benefits of both EAS and EPC functionality into one small, integrated label,’ said George Off, Checkpoint CEO. ‘The Evolve label is a good example of the “Checkpoint way” – we design products that make sense for retailers today, while also providing them with a path to the future. With Evolve EAS-EPC labels, they can leverage their investments in RF-EAS systems, while capitalizing on the benefits of RFID for improved inventory management and visibility across their supply chains. Ultimately, that's good for the consumer as it leads to better merchandise availability.’

‘As products move through the supply chain, on-shelf availability is negatively impacted by theft, damage and paperwork errors,’ he continued. ‘The combined functionality of the Evolve labels provides the benefits of EAS theft deterrence and EPC inventory visibility. We believe this new labeling solution represents a very practical way forward for retailers, providing them with a flexible and incremental approach to change, at a pace with which they are comfortable.’

The patent-pending Evolve labels operate in the UHF band of 860 to 960 MHz for the additional advantage of traceability, and at 8.2 MHz for RF-EAS systems. Checkpoint's ‘technical expertise and innovative manufacturing processes’ enable the company to combine a Gen 2-compliant product and EAS circuit, according to the statement. ‘As an added benefit, the EAS performance is significantly enhanced.’

The UHF antenna incorporates the use of Impinj Monza silicon and allows the ability to track information at a greater read distance at the receiving dock doors and onto the sales floor. The Evolve labels can be used in conjunction with existing Checkpoint RF EAS systems and are Gen 2 compliant to work with Checkpoint's UHF Portals or any certified Gen 2 reader and antenna hardware.

Evolve labels can be customized to support a variety of form factor requirements and are available now for trials.

‘The business possibilities and benefits offered by Evolve EAS-EPC labels are significant,’ concluded Off. ‘When combined with CheckNet, our customers will have access to the best combined security and tracking solution available on the market today.’