6/11/2026                                      

FEATURED CONTENT

Zebra Technologies won the RFID – Manufacturing award by resolving critical supply chain bottlenecks for Cepheid, a global leader in molecular diagnostics that develops Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test kits. Together, they launched an advanced inventory solution that drastically sped up delivery and boosted overall productivity. Transitioning to a seamless "grab-and-go" model transformed operational efficiency. This automation streamlined workflows by eliminating thousands of manual, non-value-added touchpoints. Consequently, it cut checkout times by over 95% while guaranteeing full digital traceability for all materials. By resolving these friction points, Cepheid experienced immediate, high-impact improvements across its facilities. The automation and enhanced inventory visibility helped drive a 15% increase in manufacturing output, along with a 10% surge in total productivity.

As RFID adoption continues to mature across manufacturing and distribution, the conversation is shifting.

It’s no longer about whether RFID works. That’s been established. Accuracy, automation, and hands-free data capture are well understood. The real challenge many organizations now face is what happens after the read.

Specifically, how RFID data is integrated into core enterprise systems.

AIM BLOG

AIM Global Takes Part in Coalition Calling for Balanced Approach to GPS Resilience

Mike Allen, AIM Global

AIM Global joined a broad coalition urging the FCC to support resilient backup Positioning, Navigation, and Timing solutions without reconfiguring the 902–928 MHz Lower 900 MHz Band. The letter supports the FCC’s goal of strengthening GPS resilience but opposes NextNav’s proposal because the band is already heavily used and has been for decades) by RFID, utilities, transportation, tolling, public safety, aviation, security systems, IoT, and other critical applications. The coalition argues that introducing high-power 5G operations into a band built around low-power coexistence could create interference, stranded investment, and major economic harm, including estimated RFID replacement costs of $5.0 to $7.2 billion. The letter asks the FCC to dismiss NextNav’s petition and pursue technology-neutral PNT resilience options that do not disrupt the existing Lower 900 MHz ecosystem. 

AROUND AIM

Supply chains are undergoing a massive digital transformation, driven by strict regulatory demands and the need for end-to-end transparency. At a recent supply chain event, industry leaders explored the technologies and standards enabling scalable, interoperable, and real-time visibility across global markets. Here is a quick look at the core themes driving the future of the industry:

1. The Transition from 1D to 2D – Sunrise 2027

The industry is aggressively moving from traditional, linear 1D barcodes to robust 2D barcodes. This shift allows organizations to embed far more data, such as serial numbers, batch codes, and expiration dates, into a single scannable image.

2. Evolving Traceability Mandates

Compliance is no longer just a goal; it's an immediate operational requirement. Stakeholders detailed how they are aligning with critical regulatory frameworks, including:

• DSCSA: Ensuring package-level, interoperable tracing and verification for pharmaceuticals.

• FSMA (Section 204): Implementing Key Data Elements (KDEs) and Critical Tracking Events (CTEs) to rapidly mitigate foodborne illness outbreaks.

• UDI & MoCRA: Adhering to medical device tracking and cosmetics safety reporting laws.

3. Scaling Industry Standards

Interoperable supply chain visibility requires a unified language. Industry experts shared how they are standardizing product identification, data exchange protocols, and labeling solutions to maintain seamless communication between manufacturers, distributors, and retailers.

4. Intelligent Labeling and Real-Time Tracking

Standardized data is supercharging intelligent labeling solutions. By leveraging RFID, NFC, and BLE technologies, companies are moving past historical silos to achieve real-time operational efficiency and unparalleled, farm-to-fork (or factory-to-patient) transparency.

5. Building Trust Through Digital Identities

Beyond regulatory compliance, connecting with industry peers highlighted a shared vision: digital identities. By assigning unique, authenticated digital profiles to products, we can build a supply chain ecosystem defined by greater mutual trust, transparency, and efficiency.

Don't Guess, Ask the Pros: Learn from AIM Global Thought Leaders

Meet, Mingle, & Master Traceability

The ceremony featured key industry leaders, including last year’s winner, Melanie Hilton alongside Mary Lou Bosco, President, AIM Global; Patti Blessing, Vice Chair, AIM Global Board of Directors; and Julie McGill, AIM North America Board. 

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