The RFID Passive Label Market

An Examination of Costs, Assembly Methods, and Future Innovation

RFID passive labels have been forecast to see heavy shipment volumes, offering end users a cheap automatic identification solution in many markets and applications. Much of the anticipation arose from initiatives mandated by Wal-Mart and the US Department of Defense. Markets such as pharmaceuticals, in search of an item-level solution, also helped add to the hype. While pilots and full scale deployments have taken place, the high volumes that were once expected have not materialized, due to price points that are still too high for end-users. In a chicken-or-egg scenario, manufacturers believe that prices can come down with higher shipment volumes. There are many different participants in the RFID passive label value chain, all proposing different models for bringing down cost and raising shipment volumes.

The study includes an analysis of the role that each member plays in the RFID passive label value chain, and the relationships that have developed among them. It explains what is being done to drive the market to higher volumes, and includes an analysis of the different approaches or business models that vendors are taking. The research also includes tables documenting shipments of RFID ICs and RFID tags.

What Questions Does This Report Answer?

• What is an RFID passive label transponder?
• What components are in an RFID transponder?
• How are RFID transponders assembled?
• Why are RFID passive labels important?
• Where do transponders fit into a RFID system?
• What standards exist for RFID transponders?
• What are the current markets for passive labels?
• What is being done to lower passive label pricing?
• Where will cost cutting come from within the passive label value chain?
• What innovation is occurring within the passive label market?

Who Needs This Report?

• RFID IC Manufacturers
• RFID Inlay Converters
• RFID Label Converters
• RFID Systems Integrators
• RFID Label Applicator Manufacturers
• RFID Inlay Converting Equipment Manufacturers
• RFID Label Converting Equipment Manufacturers
• Retailers
• Consumer Packaged Goods Manufacturers
• Venture Capitalists