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Frequently Asked Questions about EPC
- What is EPC or RFID?
An electronic product code (EPC) is a way to uniquely identify a pallet, case or individual product using radio frequency identification (RFID) technology. It's similar to today's bar code, but with many more potential uses and benefits. Today's uses of EPC are limited to cases and pallets. We believe it will be several years before the technology is affordable enough, and the benefits great enough, to be used on individual packages.
- Why is P&G using/testing the technology?
We've invested in this technology because it has the potential to improve processes in the entire supply chain — from our plants to retail distribution centers to store shelves. It can offer solutions for problems like out-of-stocks, theft and counterfeiting. It also helps in consistently stocking products on the shelves, and ensuring products are fresher. The efficiencies gained through this technology will enable us to keep making the products consumers love at the best value.
- Will my privacy be protected?
Protecting your privacy is very important to P&G. We have a long-standing privacy position and we're fully committed to it, be it on the Internet, through interactive advertisements or with the upcoming EPC technology. We've also developed a privacy policy specific to our use of EPC. We believe you should be made aware when EPC tags are in use and have the choice to throw away or disable the tag when you buy products at the store.
- Where is P&G testing the technology?
For a listing of our current pilot projects, click here.
- What is the benefit to me?
We know how frustrating it is when you can't find your favorite product on the shelf because it's not in stock or in the wrong spot. One of the early benefits of EPC technology will be keeping products on the shelf so your favorite is available whenever you want to buy it. Other potential benefits include a reduction in theft and counterfeiting, which will help us provide the products you love at a great value.
- Are there going to be tags on my product soon?
Right now the focus is on testing and learning about EPC at the pallet and case level. It makes sense to start there and learn about the costs and benefits of the technology. We believe it will take several years before the technology is affordable enough, and the benefits great enough, to be used on individual packages.
- Is RFID safe?
RFID was developed more than 60 years ago and today is used in many applications from gas station speed passes to tollbooths. There is no medical or research evidence that suggests the technology poses a threat to health.
- How will I know if there is a tag on my product?
We believe that people should always be notified if there is an EPC tag on individual packages. Like the thin black stripes and numbers that you currently associate with the bar code, the industry is working to develop an easily identifiable logo that could be placed on packages when EPC is being used. But right now, our focus is on testing at the case and pallet level, not individual packages.
- Will I be able to disable the tag if I want?
We believe people should always have a choice to discard or disable the tag when products are purchased. This might be accomplished by installing deactivation kiosks at the retail store, using removable tags or placing tags on secondary packaging that can be thrown away.
- Where can I get more information?
EPCglobal is the industry organization that will govern the implementation of EPC. Their Web site has a great deal of helpful information.
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