Checkpoint unveils new RF security label to protect metallic merchandise

Checkpoint Systems has announced that it has developed a unique security label specifically for metallic items that will solve one of the perennial problems associated with protecting merchandise using RF-based Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) systems.

The Checkpoint RF Metal Label, billed as the first of its kind, delivered a shrink reduction of up to 50 per cent during trials with leading US and European retailers, providing retailers with greater options when it comes to protecting metallic items.

Historically, hardware items like paint tins, drill bits and wrenches, as well as food and beauty products packaged in metallic materials, like foil and cans, have been difficult to protect without using defensive tactics, such as display cabinets. This is because the metallic material on such products absorbs the RF energy, making it harder to detect items passing out of the store.

Checkpoint said it has now become the only security label supplier with a dedicated solution to address this age-old concern.

During a series of trials at retailers around the world, Checkpoint claimed the Metal Label delivered incredible results – reducing shrinkage across all product types, including canned tuna, baby formula, deodorants, face creams and foil-lined coffee products.

Over a six-week period, one line saw shrinkage reduce by as much as 85 per cent by simply applying the new label, while shrink was at least halved on most other products.

The Metal Label can be quickly applied in-store or at source and can be used on most metallic object to create a strong visual deterrent. Checkpoint the product will give retailers peace of mind that their at-risk items can now be displayed in prime positions whilst still being protected. And, importantly, it will not impact the customer experience, with the small label having minimal effect on the visual appearance of products.

“This label is a game-changer for retailers,” Ivan Gosling, global product manager at Checkpoint Systems, commented.

“Since RF technology was introduced, there has always been a problem protecting metallic merchandise. Some retailers have learned to live with it, others have resorted to defensive measures, such as display cabinets, which naturally affect customer engagement and subsequently sales. The Metal Label is enabling most types of metallic items to now be protected in open display environments, and shrinkage can be cut significantly.”