Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are Electronic Shelf Labels (ESLs)
A: ESLs are basically a digital replication of a paper pricing ticket, but with much more functionality. Sometimes called Digital Shelf Tags, they use epaper technology (like a kindle) to display product details, pricing, promotions and discounts, QR codes, ratings and more.
Q: What is the advantage of a digital pricing system?
A: The main advantage is that prices and product information are updated at the touch of a button, removing this arduous task from staff on the shop floor. However, there are many other cost saving and operational benefits click here for more information.
Q: How is information sent to each label?
A: The information is transmitted through a proprietary Radio Frequency (RF) signal.
Q: How is this different to using Infrared (IR)?
A: Infrared requires line of sight in order to transmit information. Think about the functionality of a TV remote, it will not work with any obstacles in the way, and you must be at a reasonably close distance. Radio frequency (RF) has much longer wavelengths, meaning that it does not require line of sight to transmit successfully; it transmits around obstacles and to a greater distance. This means the infrastructure for RF technology is minimal, with small stores only requiring a single box to be installed in the ceiling, compared to the network of wiring required for IR.
Q: Is the transmission secure?
A: Yes, a proprietary signal and protocol is used to ensure that the system is secure and efficient.
Q: How can I ensure that the labels have been correctly updated?
A: Our system works on two-way communication. The reporting interface shows whether a label has been successfully updated, in the unlikely event a label update fails you'll be made aware so that it can be addressed. An automated email can also be set up notifying relevant parties if a transmission has failed.
Q: How are digital shelf labels powered?
A: The labels run on battery power so no wiring is required at the shelf edge.
Q: How long is the battery life of a label?
A: Our market leading labels boast a battery life of up 15 years, that’s 3 times more than earlier models.
Q: Do the Electronic Shelf Labels work in fridges?
A: Yes, our standard labels are waterproof and work in temperatures of 0-40C. They can therefore be used in fridges and food warming solutions such as bain-maries (under 40C).
Q: Do your digital labels work in freezers?
A: We have a label version specifically designed for freezers, these have a working temperature of -25 to 0 degrees C.
Q: Can the labels be used in wet areas?
A: Our standard labels are now waterproof and therefore can be used in wet areas, such as seafood displays and fridges.
Q: Will the solution integrate with our existing systems?
A: FutureShelf can integrate with any POS or ERP system, there are no restrictions with our digital pricing technology. Integration with existing systems and workflows is extremely important, in order to make the solution as efficient and easy to use as possible.
Q: What's involved in the installation of FutureShelf’s Electronic Pricing Solution?
A: Installation requires 3 steps:
Installing the AP unit/s into the ceiling, they are connected via POI.
Installing the shelf rails, hook or other label attachments
Binding the labels and products
We offer an in-store installation service to FutureShelf clients. See here for more information.
Q: Can I customise the screens to our requirements?
A: Definitely, all of our Electronic Shelf Labels utilise an epaper screen technology. This is extremely flexible in terms of design and layout. You will actually have much more scope for design than with paper price tickets. Using the template editor you'll be able to create a range of templates, featuring clear promo messaging, icons, QR codes and even simple graphics, all matching your company branding.
Q: What colours are the digital labels available in?
A: The label screens can display black/white/red or black/white/yellow. Any of these colours can be used as the text, image or background colour, on part or all of the screen.
Q: Can I automate a recurring price change?
A: Yes, for example if you wanted fresh bread to decrease by 30% at 4pm each day, this could be set up to run automatically, meaning even less manual intervention is required.
Looking for more information?
Download our brochure for full product specs and an overview of the software platform.