PRINTRONIX PARTNERS WITH MARC GLOBAL TO ENABLE EUROPEAN RFID IMPLEMENTATION

Printronix, the leading manufacturer of integrated enterprise printing solutions for the supply chain, has entered into a strategic alliance with MARC Global, a provider of supply chain execution systems to deliver a solution that enables European retailers and manufacturers to quickly and easily deploy RFID.

The combined solution integrates MARC Global's MARC WMS, MARC-RFID software and Printronix' EPC-compatible printers.  Used together, the products enable smooth and quick deployment of RFID, and as a result, better visibility and accuracy of inventory and the elimination of manual scanning of barcode labels. 

MARC Suite RFID Solutions, which includes its MARC WMS application, delivers RFID EPC tags in-line or at shipment and allows verification of content and delivery. It meets Wal-Mart's and other retailers' requirements for EPC management, tag quality assurance, case-to-pallet linkage and EPC-enabled Advance Ship Notices (ASNs).  Printronix' Smart Label EPC-compatible Printer enables users to print, programme and verify 'smart labels' -labels incorporating RFID tags that can be encoded with product and shipping information.

"MARC Global were obvious partners as they play a key role in solving many of the challenges that European retailers and manufacturers face with RFID implementation," said Claus Hinge, vice president for sales and marketing, Printronix EMEA. "This is a timely solution in that many European retailers are planning RFID pilots this year but are unsure who to turn to in order to get started" *

Printronix last year announced its RFID product strategy, unveiling a smart label developer's kit in North America to help users create RFID applications within their own environments.  In September 2003, Printronix unveiled worldwide availability of the Smart Label Pilot Printer, which enables migration from development into full RFID pilot activities.  Printronix' Smart Label Developer's Kit also helps users create RFID applications within their own environments. 

"With a flurry of RFID announcements and continuously evolving standards, it is only too easy for companies to choose an RFID solution that closes the door on future development," said Peter van Merode, VP Marketing & Sales MARC Global EMEA. "With this joint product offering, customers can rest easy that they are investing in solutions that are easy to deploy and field upgradeable for future developments in RFID technology."