ABI by the numbers: RFID moves beyond the basics

ABI Research confirms RFID is firmly moving beyond compliance to tracking and processing goods in the supply chain.

By Manufacturing Business Technology Staff October 1, 2007

RFID is moving markedly beyond compliance with retailer mandates for tracking and processing goods in the supply chain, according to an annual end-user survey conducted by ABI Research , an Oyster Bay, N.Y.-based analyst firm.

“It’s becoming evident that the opportunity is moving beyond the compliance market, with companies looking at RFID for a host of applications—many closed-loop in nature,” says Michael Liard, research director for RFID. “A common theme is using RFID with high-risk, high-value assets, resulting in high ROI. It’s why asset management is so hot today.

“In manufacturing, it’s about looking at improved efficiencies and trying to impact the bottom line with work-in-process tracking, spare parts, and the tagging of rolling cages, vehicles, and equipment,” Liard adds. “It’s happening not just in automotive, but in consumer electronics, apparel, textiles, and pulp & paper.”