Reusable containers are being used today in industry, retail, production and logistics, and the trend continues unbroken. Since the beginning of 2023, restaurants, too, must deal with reusable solutions for take-away dining. It is not always easy to keep track of stock levels. This is where RFID systems can help to quickly record each single container without the need for contact. In France, McDonald’s has now implemented this technology for its reusable packaging.

RFID is short for Radio Frequency Identification. This technology allows no-contact exchange of data using radio waves and can be used in a variety of applications. RFID chips can aid the pharmaceutical industry in combating drug fraud or seamlessly document the transport chain in food retail. The labels are also becoming more and more interesting for the restaurant sector. In France, fast food giant McDonald’s is now introducing RFID hardware and software in its take-away restaurants and on its reusable containers, and is working with Checkpoint Systems on the implementation. This division of CCL Industries specialises in RFID solutions for retail and offers software, hardware, labels and cloud-based solutions. Now, the system by Checkpoint Systems will also be used to optimise processes regarding reusable packaging at McDonald’s.

“With the new French legislation that entered into force at the beginning of this year, industry players are facing a unique challenge. Europe has set itself the goal to create a circular economy within the next decade, and the way there is hindered by a series of obstacles.”

Julien Thibult, RFID head of sales at Checkpoint France

The RFID labels by Checkpoint are food-safe, heat- and water-resistant.
Image: Checkpoint Systems

Data for the management of reusable packaging

The food-safe, heat- and water-resistant RFID solutions by Checkpoint Systems are suitable for all types of reusable containers – from cups and bottles to chip trays. Packaging marked in this way can be monitored and tracked by an automated database. This way, McDonald’s France gains a wealth of information about its packaging, including real-time data regarding stock, as well as about the type and quantity of containers and any necessary order quantities for resupply. The accuracy is said to reach 99 percent. An automated track and trace system is also being used. This way, restaurants can pinpoint the location of reusable packagings in the vicinity – for example, if packaging has mistakenly been dumped in a rubbish bin.

“As brands and retailers are obliged to blaze the trail towards an environmentally friendly future, they must adapt their business operations accordingly – and, if possible, without any negative impact on business results. We have developed an RFID solution which supports McDonald’s France in this endeavour and which meets their requirements. It not only enables the company to improve the processes within the supply chain and the relevant transparency, it also aids in making the brand’s business fit for the future with regard to the environment and natural resources.”

Frederic Boukara, head of the France business unit at Checkpoint Systems