Labelling Solutions
Where regulations becomes a business opportunity
So, converters should think fi rst about the issues their customers are trying to solve.
Start with a pilot solution to ensure it meets DPP needs. This enables lessons to be learned along the way. A pilot will identify necessary refi nements, ensure the hardware and software work and minimise any scaling up risks.
Encourage customers to do their research and work with them in selecting potential solution partners. Dig deep into their ecosystems, fi nd out whether RFID or 2D barcodes, or both, off er the best solution. Always ensure there’s a clear roadmap for implementing the solution, including the all-important pilot.
products like textiles and furniture will have to fulfi l mandatory obligations from as early as 2027/8. Only item-level identifi cation like that provided by smart labels and RFID will enable businesses to effi ciently fulfi l their DPP traceability requirements. It’s an opportunity for converters and printers who work with brands that are going to be fi rst aff ected to start talking to them now about labelling solutions. The DPP is a digital identity containing, but not limited to, information on: • Origin and manufacturing data • Sustainability and compliance information • Repairability and warranty status • Ownership and lifecycle tracking
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By leveraging the digital id of every mandated product, DPPs will revolutionise item-level tracking, enabling products to be traced from production to purchase, and beyond.
Item-level tracking can only really be achieved with the right mix of automatic identifi cation and data capture (AIDC) technologies like RFID, 2D barcodes (QR codes, Data Matrix) and enterprise mobile computers (EMC). Reliable thermal printers and EMCs will be necessary, which means partnering quality, experienced OEMs as well as independent software vendors (ISV) who can guide organisations through any tripping points. DPP should be seen as a three-legged stool where the right three components need to be in place: hardware, software and services.
When it comes to RFID, selecting the right RFID partners, printers and equipment cannot be overstated. RFID technology is complex but worth it, although its success is additionally dependent on people and processes.
his year sees the phasing in of the EU Digital Product Passport (DPP), where sectors processing intermediary products like steel and aluminium, and fi nal
BARCODES OR RFID? DPP regulations are currently fl exible, allowing retailers to choose between RFID and barcode-based identifi cation. If they opt for RFID-based DPP it: • Enables fast, bulk scanning of tagged products • Is ideal for automated logistics and high-volume inventory tracking
• Provides contactless authentication for secure transactions.
If they choose barcode-based DPP it is: • Accessible by smartphones and POS systems • Cost-eff ective and widely supported across industries
• Ensures universal compatibility with consumer- facing applications
If, however, both barcodes and RFID are used, then DPPs enables organisations to balance speed, cost and accessibility, ensuring seamless product traceability across supply chains and regulatory frameworks.
HOW TO BEST SUPPORT CUSTOMERS The item-level data aff orded by RFID technology changes everything, not just helping businesses be compliant with the new DPP regulations. It enables retailers, for example, through more accurate inventory, to uplift sales by 5-15 per cent. It can help reduce costs and manual errors, minimise shrink reduction and support warranty and returns tracking.
SEIZING BUSINESS GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES Converters and printers stand at a crossroads when it comes to DPP, where they could move from being mere suppliers to becoming key strategic partners. What to charge and how best to service their customers needs to be considered and they could look at a number of options: • Tiered subscriptions (SaaS): with monthly or annual plans based on features, SKUs, or volumes. This provides predictable recurring revenue and scales with brand growth
• Usage-based pricing: Per DPP, per label, or per scan. This is attractive for smaller brands and easy to align cost with value
• Bundled solutions: This combines printed labels (QR/NFC/RFID) with DPP hosting, analytics and support. It positions printers as end-to-end compliance partners and increases deal value
• Consulting & integration fees: this is based on one- time charges for setup, ERP/PLM integration, and workfl ow adaptation
• Value-added services: This is based on analytics, consumer engagement, anti-counterfeiting and managed compliance services to drive long-term retention
The best practice can be a hybrid model (base subscription + usage fees + optional add-ons) that off ers fl exibility, lowers entry barriers and maximises lifetime value.
www.convertermag.com
April 2026
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