McDonald’s France deploys Checkpoint’s new RFID tech for reusable tableware

McDonald’s France has overhauled some of its operations following the country’s new law banning the use of single-use packaging in restaurants.

Checkpoint Systems is working with McDonald's France to incorporate RFID technology into the global fast-food giant's new reusable containers. The move follows the introduction of the new French legislation (effective in January 2023), which prohibits fast-food chains from offering foods in throwaway boxes or single-use cutlery such as knives or forks.

The effort is also in line with McDonald's commitment to eliminating unnecessary packaging and contributing to the improvement of recycling systems.

Checkpoint was appointed to work with McDonald's France in 2021 to deliver the project, which involved the installation of RFID hardware and software in restaurants across the country. (To date, the company has supplied RFID solutions to more than 1,200 McDonald's France restaurants.)

The project is designed to help McDonald's reduce waste by providing real-time visibility of its reusable tableware stock, delivering fast and efficient inventory management, optimizing replenishment and ensuring the restaurant's stock lines are protected for long-term security and usability, according to Checkpoint.

Through laboratory test sessions and product consultations, Checkpoint Systems said developed one of the first-ever food-safe, heat-and water-resistant RFID solution. The design has been applied from cups and bottles to fries' containers, enabling the items to be monitored and potentially tracked through an automated database.

In addition, the database will provide McDonald's France with real-time data on stock inventory, including the container type and quantities, and replenishment requirements, delivering up to 99% accuracy. Through its automated track and trace function, McDonald’s restaurants can also pinpoint the location of nearby containers (in case a container is accidentally discarded into a rubbish bin) to minimize the risk of shrink.

"As the onus is placed on brands and retailers to pave the way for a greener future, it is important for organizations to adjust their business practices accordingly without any adverse effects on their bottom line,” said Frederic Boukara, business unit director France at Checkpoint Systems. “As such, we have provided an RFID solution to meet the demands of McDonald's France, not only enabling it to improve its supply chain operations and visibility, but future-proofing the brand's business with the environment in mind."