There are several types of ESLs common at shops, including segmented e-paper, gull-graphic e-paper, and liquid crystal display (LCD). Among these, full-graphic e-paper variants are the most popular among retailers because they are best able to display graphical objects. This allows retailers to promote the products in a much-attractive way, which is not possible with other variants. Moreover, these variants are cheaper than LCD ones and also, more energy-efficient, which results in high cost savings for retailers.

These labels use majorly one of the three technologies: infrared, near-field communication (NFC), and radiofrequency. Among these, the procurement of ESLs based on the NFC technology is projected to rise the fastest in the coming years owing to the technology’s ability to transfer data in a contactless manner among devices. Moreover, NFC is being factory-integrated into point-of-sale (POS) terminals and smartphones, which is driving the popularity of NFC-integrated ESLs. Thus, with the rising procurement of NFC-enabled POS terminals, the demand for ESLs with this technology is increasing as well.

Currently, North America contributes the highest revenue to the electronic shelf label market as it is home to expansive retail chains. They are adopting ESLs to automate their operations, achieve ease of managing stores, and save expenses. This is especially beneficial considering that labor costs in the region are rather high. Moreover, several companies offering ESLs are functional in the region, which allows retailers to easily procure these devices.

In the years to come, the usage of ESLs will increase at the highest pace in Europe. The reasons are almost similar to North America: the presence of large retail chains is among the biggest ones. Further, it is one of the most-technologically advanced regions in the world, so any new technology is enthusiastically taken up here. Moreover, with an increasing number of people shopping at large stores, their operations are becoming more difficult to manage, which is driving the adoption of ESLs in the continent.

Thus, with the growth of the retail sector complemented by the rapid digitization and automation, ESL sales will continue surging.