ELECTRONIC SHELF LABELS

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are Electronic Shelf Labels (ESLs)
A: ESLs are digital price tags used in-store to display product pricing and other information (images, QR codes, barcodes, ratings) on shelves instead of paper tickets. The ESL screens use e-ink technology.

ESLs automatically update with new prices, promotions, and product information, displaying the latest data on the shelf instantaneously (or at a predetermined time).

Q: What is the advantage of a digital pricing system?
A: The primary advantage is that prices and product information are updated automatically, freeing staff from the extremely time-consuming task of manually updating price tickets. There are also numerous other cost-saving and operational benefits. Click here for more information.

Q: How do ESLs work?
A: Electronic Shelf Labels (ESLs) use secure wireless communication to update prices and product information in real-time from a centralised database. Access Points (APs) installed on the shop ceiling receive data from the central server and transmit it to the relevant ESLs. The screens then display the updated information either immediately or at a scheduled time.

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 for transmission, much like how a TV remote works; it won’t function if there’s an obstacle in the way or if you’re too far. RF, on the other hand, has longer wavelengths, which allows it to transmit data through obstacles and over greater distances. As a result, RF technology requires minimal infrastructure – small stores may only need one ceiling-mounted unit, compared to the extensive wiring network 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 features two-way communication. The reporting interface confirms whether a label has been updated successfully. In the rare event of a failed update, you’ll be notified so it can be addressed. Automated alert emails can also be set up to inform the relevant parties if an issue occurs.

Q: How are digital shelf labels powered?
A: Our ESLs are powered by internal batteries, meaning no external power source or wiring is required.

Q: How long is the battery life of a label?
A: Our industry-leading labels have a battery life of up to 15 years – three times longer than earlier models.

Q: What technology does your solution use?

A: Our Electronic Shelf Label solution is powered by award-winning technology from Hanshow, a global leader in digital pricing innovation. Backed by a world-class R&D team, Hanshow continues to push the boundaries of digital retail through constant product development and patented technologies.

Their ESL hardware combines sleek, intelligent design with advanced functionality, delivering reliable performance at scale. This proven technology is recognised internationally through multiple design and innovation awards and underpins large-scale retail deployments worldwide.

Q: How are ESLs installed?
A: ESLs are clipped into shelf rails that are fitted to your existing shelving. We also offer a range of accessories for non-shelf applications, including hooks and free-standing holders. See our Installation page for more information.

Q: What maintenance is required for ESLs?
A: ESLs are very low-maintenance. Simply wipe them down with a soft cloth occasionally to remove any dust.

Q: Can Electronic Shelf Labels be used in fridges?
A: Yes, our standard labels are designed to operate in temperatures ranging from 0°C to 40°C, making them suitable for fridges and food-warming solutions like bain-maries (as long as they don’t exceed 40°C).

Q: Do your digital labels work in freezers?
A: We offer labels specifically designed for freezers, with an operating temperature range of -25°C to 0°C.

Q: Can the labels be used in wet areas?
A: Yes, we offer ESLs with varying levels of waterproofing. Our IP68-rated labels are fully waterproof and dustproof, while our IP54-rated labels are splashproof and dust-resistant. This flexibility allows you to choose the appropriate level of protection for different areas in your store, such as seafood displays and fridges.

Q: Will the solution integrate with our existing systems?
A: One of the key benefits of working with FutureShelf, is that we manage the data integration, ensuring smooth system architecture. FutureShelf’s proprietary systems can work with any POS or ERP, there are no restrictions. 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 involves three simple steps:

1. Installing the AP unit(s) in the ceiling (connected via POI).

2. Installing the shelf rails, hooks, or other label attachments.

3. Binding the labels to their corresponding products.

We also offer an in-store installation service for FutureShelf clients. See here for more information.

Q: Can I customise the screens to our brand’s requirements?
A: Absolutely. Our ESLs use e-ink screen technology, which is highly flexible in terms of design and layout. You’ll have far more design options compared to paper tickets. Using the template editor, you can create templates featuring promo messaging, icons, QR codes, and simple graphics – all aligned with your branding.

Q: What colours are the digital labels available in?
A: Our 3-colour label screens can display black, white, and either red or yellow.

Our 4-colour label screens can display black, white, red, and yellow.

Any of these colours can be used as the text, image, or background colour on part or all of the screen. See our product page for more information.

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.

Q: Which Australian retail stores currently use FutureShelf's solution?
A: We're proud to say that our clients include: Terry White Chemmart, Priceline, Autobarn, Autopro, Optus, Celebrations, Liquor Legends, Thirsty Camel, Sip n Save, Bottlemart, Harry Brown, Drummond Golf, and many others.

Q: What is FutureShelf's experience in the Australian Electronic Shelf Label market?
A: FutureShelf was the first company in Australia to successfully specialise in Electronic Shelf Label solutions. As a result, we’ve built unmatched experience working with this transformative technology across a wide range of retail environments.

This depth of expertise positions us to help retailers seamlessly integrate ESLs into their operations, whether across a single store or an entire network, ensuring fast adoption, minimal disruption, and maximum return on investment. See our Solutions page for more information.

Q: What is FutureShelf’s core area of expertise?
A: Electronic Shelf Labels aren’t an add-on to our offering, they are our sole focus. This specialisation has enabled FutureShelf to develop deep technical expertise and proven implementation knowledge across Australian retail.