10100601Sustainable Inventory Solution to Empower Retail [SISTER]ClosedCollaborative R&DInnovate UKThis project aims to unleash the full potential of RFID technology in the fashion retail space by revolutionising inventory management and customer engagement solutions. PulpaTronics develops more sustainable RFID tags that are chipless and metal-less made entirely from paper and can be recycled. Radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags are simple electronic circuits embedded in products for identification through radio signals used in item tracking and inventory management. PulpaTronics' alternative combines two novel technologies to create RFID tags that do not require an antenna or a microchip, eliminating metal mining, streamlining manufacturing processes and reducing overall environmental impact. The resulting RFID tags are significantly cheaper than conventional tags. By making RFID tags more accessible, the technology helps retailers achieve their sustainability goals, while empowering customers to confidently dispose of RFID tags and make more conscious shopping decisions. Project SISTER is split up into 5 main work packages that tackles the RFID reader development, Dual-purpose antenna geometry patterns designed through image recognition software, environmental testing to help us achieve TRL 6, implementation design and user-testing and feedback. We've partnered with MTC and Engineering Lab to carry out our R&D and have existing relationships with Cranfield University and Imperial College London to help with tech feasibility guidance and testing. By working with Petit Pli who's our in-store retail testing partner, PulpaTronics aims to uncover novel applications for RFID technology in the fashion industry. With the help of human-centred design methods, PulpaTronics is looking to gather valuable insights from both fashion retailers and customers regarding their considerations, preferences and unmet needs, regarding inventory management as well as customer engagement post-purchase. We look to be the first to commercialise chipless RFID tags in retail to provide a sustainable and more affordable alternative to inventory solutions. The funding will enable us to validate our technology, develop implementation processes through user-interviews and scale up for pilots in the near future.