Modern retailers rely heavily on digital infrastructure to run their physical stores more efficiently, accurately, and sustainably. Among the most essential tools in this digital shift are electronic shelf labels (ESLs). These wireless, screen-based devices eliminate the need for printed paper tags and allow for real-time price updates, reducing human error and enhancing operational speed.
But as the ESL market becomes more saturated, the choice of which manufacturer to partner with is proving to be more than a technical matter—it’s a strategic one.
A Warning from Europe: The Price of the Wrong Choice
In early 2024, several major retailers across Germany, France, and the Netherlands experienced widespread ESL failures. Customers reported discolored and unreadable displays across store shelves, even under standard lighting. In one case, a leading discount chain reportedly received over 30 million price-related complaints—all due to visibility issues caused by subpar ESL hardware.
These incidents triggered large-scale procurement reevaluations across the European retail sector. Many retailers began to shift their priorities from basic functionality and low pricing to quality, durability, and responsive after-sales support. As digital infrastructure becomes the operational backbone of retail, faulty ESLs are no longer a minor nuisance—they are a risk to revenue and brand reputation.
ESL Failures Aren’t Localized — They’re Global
The risks are not limited to Europe. On April 7, 2025, New Zealand’s leading supermarket chain Woolworths had to temporarily close nearly all 185 stores due to a pricing glitch involving its ESL system. Promotional prices failed to display, forcing mass corrections across its network and potentially costing the retailer millions in sales in just a few hours.
This reinforces a hard truth: when ESL systems fail, the cost is immediate and massive—not just in revenue but in operational trust.
The Hidden Risk: Security
With ESLs now integrated into store networks and pricing databases, security is not optional—it’s essential. Weak systems are vulnerable to unauthorized access, price manipulation, and data breaches, all of which can severely damage brand trust.
Retailers should ensure their ESL system includes:
- End-to-end encryption of all data communication
- Strict access controls for price updates
- Ongoing firmware upgrades to patch vulnerabilities
Manufacturers like SOLUM implement multi-layered protections across hardware, software, and cloud systems. This proactive approach to ESL integrity makes SOLUM a standout choice in high-security retail environments.
Why SOLUM Is Different
While many vendors focus on rushing products to market, SOLUM, a spin-off from Samsung, invests in long-term performance, precision engineering, and global customer support.
With proven installations across major global retailers—including Lowe’s, ShopRite, HMart, Staples Canada, RONA, and Gucci—SOLUM offers a tested solution that retailers can count on.
One key innovation is the Power Rail System, which eliminates the need for disposable batteries. Instead, it powers ESLs through in-store lighting, reducing waste, lowering maintenance, and minimizing operational disruptions.
Retailers using SOLUM’s ESLs benefit from:
- Virtually zero maintenance requirements
- Real-time remote updates via a centralized cloud platform
- Long-lasting displays optimized for high-traffic and high-light environments
- Reliable syncing and minimal risk of malfunction
Conclusion: The Right ESL Partner Is a Business Decision
As retailers evolve into fully digitized operations, the systems they depend on must evolve too. ESL technology is no longer a side tool—it’s a critical part of in-store performance and brand identity.
Choosing the right ESL partner is the key to ensuring long-term operational reliability, customer trust, and profitability.
For European and global retailers seeking a secure, future-ready, and proven ESL provider, SOLUM stands out as the benchmark—bringing together Korean precision manufacturing, security-first architecture, and global retail expertise.
