Developed initially for contactless financial transactions, Near Field Communication (NFC) is a short-range wireless connectivity technology for simple and safe two-way interactions – and it is perfectly suited to merchandising.

Similar to Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, NFC allows transfer of data between an NFC-compatible device (like an NFC-enabled mobile phone) and an NFC tag, which looks similar to a microchip.

NFC tags can be embedded into all sorts of promotional products and are slowly but surely finding their way into an increasing number of devices, for example:

• Using a mobile to pay for small items like coffee or magazines.
• They can be installed behind ‘smart posters’, integrated into brochures (or beer mats!), pens, window stickers or even t-shirts.
• Easy data logging of cleaning routines, medical care and security checks.
• Embedded or stuck onto products for one-tap download of user manuals and for product identification to help prevent counterfeits and monitor stock movement.
• Embedded into wristbands or cards for access control, or for ‘closed-loop’ payments at trade shows, festivals and other events.
• One-tap access at home to the weather, to turn on the Wi-Fi, put the phone on silent or to send a text.
  
• Embedded in tourist signs to provide instant access to information.

The beauty of NFC promotional products is their simplicity. Once the tag has been encoded with the desired information or action, they’re ready to use. Users simply touch the back of the phone against the tag, which will launch the URL, application or service. No lining up cameras with barcodes, no downloading apps to scan – no fuss, simple.

Arcadia’s NFC promotional products range of pens, mouse mats, coasters, badges, stickers, wristbands and key rings includes a small internal NFC tag pre-encoded with information or an action. For more information about NFC promotional products contact our sales team at sales@arcadiaonline.co.uk.

Make Memorable Merchandise

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Jason Markwick

Having worked in Promotional Merchandise for the last 25 years I have been exposed to all aspects of the industry. Starting out as an account manager working with some of the worlds leading brands, I have learnt to understand the needs of a client, manufacturing processes, and what it takes to deliver a successful promotional campaign that is on brand, on time and within a given budget.