The discussion focused on the challenges and solutions in the retail supply chain using EPCIS and serialized data. Key issues include claims, counterfeit products, and shrinkage. EPCIS, a standard for visibility systems, helps track and verify product shipments using RFID tags and barcodes. The conversation highlighted the importance of data integrity and the potential of blockchain and APIs for data exchange. Examples included Hanes and Walmart using serialized data to refute claims and improve inventory management. Resources from GS1 were recommended for further guidance on implementing these standards. The future of 2D barcodes and RFID integration was also discussed.

Gena Morgan, Vice President of Standards at GS1 US, discussed the evolution and future of barcodes, emphasizing the transition from 1D to 2D barcodes by 2027. She highlighted the benefits of 2D barcodes, which can carry more data, including serial numbers and expiration dates, enhancing inventory management and consumer engagement. Morgan explained that GS1 Digital Link standard transforms barcodes into web-resolvable identifiers, linking products to detailed information. She noted ongoing lab tests and small-scale pilots, with real-world implementations expected by next year. Morgan encouraged retailers and brands to start planning now to leverage these advancements

Justin Patton continues his discussion with Mike Graen and explores topics including the evolution and benefits of RFID technology in various industries, emphasizing its role in improving inventory accuracy and management. He highlights the importance of focusing on data handling and cleaning rather than just tag and reader performance.

Patton also mentions the potential of RFID in space operations and the need for standards in this emerging field. He addressed the challenges of inventory accuracy in retail, stressing the importance of serialized inventory and the need for retailers to adapt to this strategy. Patton announces the Auburn RFID Lab's expansion to a new 100,000 sq. ft. facility and plans for major events in 2025, including a supplier summit and a board meeting.

Justin Patton, Director of Auburn University's RFID lab, sat down with host Mike Graan and discussed the evolution and future of RFID technology in retail and other industries. He emphasized the importance of proper item setup, technology readiness, and execution for accurate inventory management.

Patton highlighted the challenges in achieving serialized inventory and the need for multi-sensor systems. He mentioned initiatives like the chip and integration pilot and the executive committee involving Walmart, Delta Airlines, UPS, and McDonald's to drive technology adoption and knowledge sharing across verticals. Patton also stressed the importance of open standards and the need for mature technology solutions to improve supply chain visibility and efficiency.

Host Mike Graen and Matthew Russell continue their discussion on the challenges and progress in supply chain data sharing, particularly the use of serialized data and EPCIS standards. They highlight the slow adoption of data capture and communication protocols, especially in retail environments.

The conversation touches on the potential for RFID technology to improve asset protection, inventory accuracy, and reduce shrinkage. They also discuss the synergies between different industries, such as aviation and food, and how innovations in one sector can benefit retail. The importance of starting with simple, proven RFID applications is emphasized, along with the educational opportunities for students in the Auburn RFID lab.

Matthew Russell, Managing Director of Retail at Auburn University's RFID Lab, sat down with host Mike Graen to discuss the evolving trends in RFID technology for 2024. He highlighted the lab's work with major retailers like Walmart, Kroger, and Nike including:

• Inventory accuracy and supplier compliance
• Importance of selecting the right RFID tags and inlays
• Shift from handheld readers to fixed infrastructure for real-time tracking
• Future use cases include expiration management and location positioning

Host Mike Graen continues his conversation with Tyler Davis from Woodman's and Mark Shake from Badger Technologies focused on the impact of the robot on pricing discrepancies, out-of-stocks, and incorrect products.

The robot identifies issues like wrong products and out-of-stocks, saving labor by organizing tags by location and improving online order fulfillment. It also helps in inventory management, reducing shrinkage, and ensuring accurate product placement. The robot's data is used across the business, from district managers to buyers, and it has been well-received by store employees. Future plans include integrating RFID technology for better inventory tracking.

The conversation emphasizes the importance of leveraging technology to automate routine tasks and improve overall store efficiency.

Host Mike Graen sits down with Tyler Davis from Woodman's and Mark Shake from Badger Technologies to the implementation of Badger's retail solutions, including AI and machine learning for security and disinfection applications.

Woodman's, a 240,000 square feet grocery store chain, uses Badger's robots to verify pricing accuracy daily, reducing the need for manual checks and improving customer experience. The robots also assist in identifying out-of-stock items and optimizing product placement.

Woodmans' 20 stores, primarily in the Midwest, benefit from these automations, enhancing operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Mike Graen discusses the state of on-shelf availability in retail, highlighting the impact of inventory distortion, which cost retailers over $1.77 trillion in 2023. He cites a McKinsey survey showing 62% of shoppers couldn't find an item on their list, leading to 39% switching brands and 32% switching retailers. Graen emphasizes the importance of meeting customer needs, referencing Walmart CEO Doug McMillon. He explores solutions like algorithms, audits, computer vision, RFID, and robots, noting that on-shelf availability is crucial for customer satisfaction and sales. He also mentions the role of buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) and research online, buy in-store (ROBUS) in modern retail.

Host Mike Graen sits down with Sarjoun Skaff - CEO of Bossa Nova Robotics - to disucss the story of how the Bossa Nova Shelf Scanning Robot came to be, along with topics including:

• Challenges of implementing robots in retail stores.
• Using robots in retail, focusing on stocking and customer service.
• Supply chain automation and integration.