A new framework for RFID use cases in fashion and apparel retailing

OBJECTIVE: This paper aims at proposing a new framework for the classification of RFID deployments in fashion and apparel retailing. The framework encompasses several different use cases (UCs) pursued by fashion and apparel retailers in the last decade, and updates, expands and goes beyond what has already been presented in the related literature. DESIGN, METHODOLOGY, APPROACH: We carried out a comprehensive literature review on RFID deployments in fashion and apparel retail. We searched different sources of information, that is, scientific papers, conferences and seminars proceedings, websites, magazines, newspapers etc., up to 160 papers that were carefully analysed and organised in a structured database. This data set also comprehends information from confidential projects. We analyse contents on the level of single RFID projects, that is, feasibility studies, proofs of concept, pilots or deployments. For each project, we determine what specific UCs were at stake. Eventually, the framework of all possible RFID UCs emerged from the analysis, and we set up a panel of industry partners to validate the framework using the Delphi method. FINDINGS: We structured the new framework along two levels: first, 6 categories were identified (i.e., level 1 use cases). Each category was then detailed, resulting in a total of 18 specific UCs (i.e., level 2 use cases). Each level 2 UC corresponds to a very specific objective pursued by an RFID implementation. For each UC, we propose a set of business metrics to evaluate deployment success as well as benefits achieved. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: From a practitioner's perspective, the framework offers a comprehensive and well-structured overview of the cost- and the revenue-related potentials of RFID implementations in the industry. Researchers, on the other hand, may use the framework to identify opportunities for further research regarding RFID deployments in retailing. ORIGINALITY/VALUE: Our framework is based on the current body of literature, and complements prior studies, which served as the starting point for our research.