Every day, supermarkets face the same challenge: shelves full of fresh products that quickly lose value as they near their expiration dates. Perfectly edible food is often discarded, leading to massive losses for retailers and the environment alike.

Across Europe, this pattern repeats daily — good food is wasted because traditional labelling and pricing systems are rigid and inflexible. Retailers lose revenue, consumers miss opportunities to buy discounted fresh food, and valuable resources are thrown away.

Dynamic Labelling: Smart, Real-Time Solutions

The SISTERS project is reimagining this system through a dynamic labelling solution — a smarter, flexible way to manage stock and reduce waste. Instead of static labels, these new labels adapt in real time.

How It Works

Behind each label, algorithms monitor expiry dates, stock levels, and even demand trends. Prices are updated gradually — a yogurt three days from expiry might drop slightly today, more tomorrow, and even more the next day — ensuring it sells before it spoils.

Consistency Across Channels

Dynamic labels ensure the same pricing information appears in stores, online, and at checkout. This transparency helps shoppers make informed, sustainable decisions and strengthens trust in retailers.

The Benefits: From Efficiency to Sustainability

For Retailers

  • Reduced unsold stock and improved logistics.
  • Real-time data for smarter inventory planning.

For Consumers

  • Fairer pricing and access to fresh food.
  • Clear information across all channels.

For the Planet

Testing Dynamic Labelling in Real Retail Settings

SISTERS is testing this innovation through pilot supermarkets under the #WasteLessRetail campaign. These pilots collect data and feedback from both store managers and consumers, ensuring the technology works effectively in real-life retail environments.

This initiative combines innovation, behavioural change, and collaboration — showing that reducing food waste is not just technical, but cultural.

Changing Mindsets: Food Deserves a Second Chance

Dynamic labelling is more than a technical fix; it represents a shift in mindset. It encourages us to see food not as disposable but as valuable — even as it nears its best-before date.

By connecting innovation with everyday shopping, SISTERS is redefining how we buy, eat, and care for our shared resources.

👉 Learn more about SISTERS’ innovations for retail in the #WasteLessRetail campaign.

📖 Explore the FAO’s World Food Day page to understand why reducing food loss and waste is key to global sustainability.

Post Views: 581