Focus on radio technology

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is a key technology for retailing in the future. The METRO GROUP Future Store Initiative is proactively pushing the development and introduction of the technology.

The Smart Chip, or transponder, is at the heart of RFID. In retailing, special tags are attached to pallets, boxes or clothes. The chip has a combination of numbers saved on it, the Electronic Product Code (EPC). This makes objects uniquely identifiable. Special RFID readers record the EPC and enter it into a database. This database holds information about manufacturer, price or dispatch date, for example, and this information is then available to authorized users.

RFID has been used in the commercial arena since the 1970s, for example in air travel and container logistics, but in the last few years new areas of application  have emerged. Many hospitals are improving patient care with the help of RFID. Retail and consumer goods companies use the radio technology in warehouse management and logistics. RFID helps optimize processes and reduce costs.

In 2004, METRO GROUP became the first retail company worldwide to begin the rollout of RFID at selected warehouses and the sales brands Metro Cash & Carry, real,- and Galeria Kaufhof.  Todays over 180 manufacturing partners produce special pallets and boxes fitted with transponders for METRO GROUP. On top of that, METRO GROUP is carrying out a number of pilot projects for the application of RFID at the consumer-goods level on the sales floor. 

METRO GROUP operates in compliance with all national data protection  guidelines. On top of that, the company has voluntarily applied the guidelines  laid down by the international standardization organization EPCglobal to ensure responsible use of RFID technology.