Logistics

RFID Technology’s Impact on Inventory Management

Published

3 years ago

July 13, 2023

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, once a novelty, has now become an important part of inventory management in the logistics sector. By employing electromagnetic fields to automatically identify and track tags attached to objects, RFID has significantly enhanced the efficiency and accuracy of inventory tracking and management.

How RFID technology works

RFID technology operates through two primary components, these being, RFID tags and RFID readers. Each RFID tag, attached to an object, contains a microchip that stores specific information about the object.

The RFID reader emits radio waves that activate the tag, prompting it to transmit the information stored on its microchip. This information is then captured by the RFID reader.

As this process does not require direct line-of-sight, RFID can accurately and efficiently track and identify objects, even within a crowded, cluttered, or concealed environment. This capability is utilised in sectors such as inventory management, asset tracking, and access control.

Passive RFID VS Active RFID

The difference between passive and active RFID is mainly the range and power source difference. Essentially passive RFID gets its energy from the RFID reader when the RFID tag comes near the tag reader, while active RFID contains an internal battery.

Active RFID contains its power source and does not rely on the tag reader for any additional source of power.

Differences Between Passive & Active RFID

Passive RFID

Shorter signal range of 3 meters
Cheaper
Limited to around 128kb of data
Smaller size
High total lifespan typically 20 years

Active RFID

Longer signal range of 100 meters
More expensive
Able to store more data.
Larger size
Short total lifespan typically 5 years

When it comes to inventory management, the choice ultimately depends on the situation. For efficient management, we require an RFID solution that can be deployed in large quantities, remains cost-effective, and accurately identifies individual items. This makes the passive RFID the most suitable for large-scale inventory management.

The Emergence of RFID in Inventory Management

Traditional inventory management processes were labour-intensive, time-consuming, and prone to human error. This is where RFID technology made its mark, offering an automated and more accurate system for tracking goods.

Through RFID, logistics companies can easily track every product in real-time, from the moment it leaves the production line to the point it reaches the end consumer.

RFID technology encompasses two key components: a tag and a reader. The tag, attached to the product, contains electronically stored information. The reader then communicates with the tag, enabling real-time tracking of goods in the supply chain.

Impact of RFID tags on Inventory Management

1. Enhanced Accuracy

The RFID system provides real-time updates on the status of goods, reducing the risk of stockouts and overstock situations. Its automatic scanning eliminates human errors associated with manual data entry, thus enhancing the accuracy of inventory data.

2. Time and Cost Efficiency

By automating the tracking process, RFID technology reduces labour costs and saves time that would otherwise be spent on manual tracking. Additionally, the improved accuracy helps avoid costly mistakes such as double shipping or losses due to misplaced items.

3. Improved Decision Making

With accurate, real-time inventory data, logistics companies can make better-informed decisions. For instance, understanding inventory levels in real-time helps in demand forecasting, resource planning, and reducing holding costs.

4. Increased Customer Satisfaction

RFID technology enables faster delivery times and reduces the likelihood of errors, leading to improved customer satisfaction. Furthermore, with the ability to track products in real-time, customers can receive accurate delivery estimates.

5. Enhanced Security

RFID tags are difficult to duplicate, making them an effective tool against counterfeiting and theft. They also provide a clear trail of product movement, further improving security.

Conclusion

RFID technology has revolutionised inventory management by automating tracking, enhancing data accuracy, saving time, and reducing costs. As RFID technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more innovative applications that will further optimise the logistics sector.

Despite the initial investment required for RFID implementation, the long-term benefits it offers make it an invaluable asset for modern inventory management.

Logistics

Alcohol and TOPS Deliveries on the SPAR2U App

Published

6 days ago

November 2, 2026

SCN Africa

Young lady placing an order on SPAR2U from his phone.

We were asked if we can order from TOPS and how alcohol deliveries work on the SPAR2U app. Below are some answers on your TOPS orders and your alcohol deliveries and how it works on the SPAR2U app.

Which Grocery Delivery Apps Work With TOPS Stores?

You can order beverages from participating TOPS stores from the SPAR2U app.

Are Alcohol Deliveries Available From Participating TOPS Stores?

Yes. We deliver alcohol from TOPS stores through the SPAR2U app.

You can find our full list of participating TOPS stores on our where we deliver page.

What Alcohol Delivery Options Are Available on SPAR2U?

You can order beer, wine, spirits and other available products from participating TOPS at SPAR stores through SPAR2U.

Does SPAR2U Deliver Beer, Wine and Spirits on the Same Day?

Yes. We offer same-day alcohol delivery. This is, however, subject to delivery times and legal trading hours.

If you have any further questions or need to download the app go to https://www.spar.co.za/spar2u

Logistics

Tipping Your Driver on the SPAR2U App

Published

1 week ago

October 29, 2026

SCN Africa

Young man relaxing on his couch as he places a SPAR2U order.

We were asked about how driver tips work on the SPAR2U app. Below are some answers about driver tips and who gets the money on the SPAR2U app.

Can I Add a Tip for My Driver?

Yes, tips help support drivers and ensures they are rewarded for their effort and service. You can add a tip during the checkout process by selecting the tip amount you desire.

Is Tipping Mandatory?

Tipping is optional but highly appreciated by the drivers for their service.

How is the Tip Amount Charged?

The tip amount is added to your total order amount and charged to your selected payment method.

Do Drivers Receive the Full Tip Amount?

Yes, drivers receive 100% of the tips given by customers. Tips go directly to the driver and are not subject to any fees.

If you have any further questions or need to download the app go to https://www.spar.co.za/spar2u

Logistics

Runway to Railway Puts Innovation and African Identity at the Heart of Infrastructure

Published

2 weeks ago

October 27, 2026

SCN Africa

Smarter infrastructure, better connected transport systems and airport experiences that reflect African creativity were at the centre of Runway to Railway: Project Maverick, held at the Vineyard Hotel in Cape Town on 22 October 2026. The gathering brought aviation, technology and creative perspectives into a discussion about how innovation can improve infrastructure and the experience of the people who use it.

Held under the theme Simply Connect Africa, the event forms part of the Runway to Railway vision conceived by Anna K Hecart, founder and director of Connected Group. The platform brings different sectors together to explore connections between infrastructure, business and opportunity across the continent.

Panel discussion, from right to feft at Project Maverick: Dirk Ackerman, moderator; Nicholas Ferguson, Executive Managing Director, RSA Aero; Hasnain Motlekar, Acting Chief Executive Officer, BCX; and York Ning, Director, ICT Marketing & Solution Sales Department, Huawei South Africa.

Raising the Bar for African Infrastructure. Panel participants: Dirk Ackerman, moderator; Nicholas Ferguson, Executive Managing Director, RSA Aero; Hasnain Motlekar, Acting Chief Executive Officer, BCX; and York Ning, Director, ICT Marketing & Solution Sales Department, Huawei South Africa.

“Runway to Railway began with a belief that Africa’s progress depends on the connections we make between people, industries and ideas,” said Hecart. “We are pleased to announce the Runway to Railway Expo for November 2027. Our ambition is to bring the people shaping transport, infrastructure and technology together with investors and creative businesses to explore practical solutions and build partnerships that move Africa forward.”

The Expo is being developed as a meeting place for aviation, rail, logistics, infrastructure, technology, tourism and design professionals, alongside investors and public-sector stakeholders. Partners can expect opportunities to showcase their capabilities and connect with potential collaborators. Attendees can look forward to discovering innovations, exchanging ideas and exploring how better connected infrastructure can support African business and communities.

Anna K Hecart, Founder and Director of Connected Group and visionary behind Runway to Railway, addresses the attendees at Runway to Rail.

Anna K Hecart, Founder and Director of Connected Group and visionary behind Runway to Railway, addresses the gathering.

The infrastructure conversation brought the airport development perspective together with the technology expertise of BCX and Huawei. It considered how closer collaboration can support better passenger experiences, reliable operations and the practical delivery of connected infrastructure.

“The decisions that shape a passenger’s journey are made across many different organisations,” said Ackerman. “Bringing developers, operators and technology partners together early helps us see how those decisions fit together and where collaboration can make infrastructure work better.”

“An airport is part of a much wider economic network,” said Ferguson. “Its development needs to consider how people arrive, how businesses connect and how the surrounding region benefits. Innovation should support that wider purpose while making the everyday experience more efficient and welcoming.”

“The value of connected infrastructure lies in what it enables people and businesses to do,” said Motlekar. “Reliable networks, secure systems and useful information need to work together. Planning these capabilities from the outset helps organisations improve services and respond as demand changes.”

Gavin Rajah delivered the closing remarks, extending the conversation to the quality and character of retail experiences at African airports. He highlighted the opportunity to bring greater creativity and a stronger expression of African identity into spaces that shape travellers’ first and last impressions of a destination.

“An African airport should give travellers a real sense of place,” said Rajah. “Our retail spaces can do far more to showcase the continent’s design, fashion, food and craft. We have the talent and the stories. The opportunity is to present them with imagination and the quality they deserve, while creating space for African creative businesses to grow.”