Jul 12, 2010RFID Journal is transforming its RFID in Fashion conference and exhibition, previously planned for Aug. 12-13 in New York City, into a virtual event to be held on Sept. 28, 2010. The speakers will focus on educating apparel suppliers about how to tag individual items.
"Interest in radio frequency identification is rising in the sector, but given the continued economic challenges facing retailers and apparel, footwear and accessory manufacturers, we feel a virtual event better serves the needs of our readers," says Mark Roberti, RFID Journal's founder and editor. "The virtual event will be free, and there are no travel costs, so this is an easy way for companies to quickly get up to speed."
The virtual event, sponsored by Avery Dennison Retail Information Services Group, will cover the following topics:
RFID Tagging 101. Learn about the different types of RFID tags (wet inlays, labels and so forth) used on apparel, and the different options for applying tags to apparel items. The presenter will also explain the different features of ultrahigh-frequency (UHF) tags, including privacy features, and how to choose the proper RFID tag for your needs.
Sourcing the Tags. Companies have three options: ordering tags from a service bureau; overprinting and encoding RFID hangtags or labels with an RFID printer and appropriate software at their own facilities; or applying separate RFID tags at their own distribution facilities, associated with each item's Universal Product Code (UPC), before the goods are shipped to stores. Learn the pros and cons of each approach.
Encoding Serialized Data in RFID Apparel Tags and Labels. The key to tracking unique items is to encode every RFID tag with a unique serial number. But doing so in such a way that does not slow down operations can be challenging. In this session, learn a proven approach to bulk-encoding tags with unique serial numbers.
RFID Software and Systems Integration. Retailers and apparel suppliers have questions about how to integrate RFID software into their existing systems. This session will explain how to do so cost-effectively, and how the resultant data can be used to drive business value. In addition, the presenter will discuss what information needs to be on the tag, and why.
Protecting Customer Privacy and Your Brand. Apparel suppliers and retailers must ensure that RFID tags with unique serial numbers are not used to infringe upon their customers' privacy. Failure to adopt proper procedures could lead to public-relations nightmares. The speaker for this session will outline best practices for protecting both customer privacy and your brand.
"RFID in Fashion is a unique event," Roberti says, "in that it focuses on the issues related to deploying RFID in the apparel and footwear industries. We are pleased to be able to expand coverage globally by offering the event online."
To view the agenda for this program, and to register, visit RFID in Fashion.
