AIM’s regional chapters across the globe continue to lead the way in advancing automatic identification and data capture (AIDC) technologies. From regulatory advocacy and standards development to industry-specific solutions and educational outreach, each chapter is contributing uniquely to the collective success of the global AIDC community.

AIM Europe has sustained strong membership growth into the summer and is actively preparing for a strong presence at LogiMat 2025. The chapter is a key player in standards development efforts with CEN and ETSI.

AIM-D e.V. (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) remains one of the most technically active chapters. Its advocacy work focuses on RFID frequency harmonization, ETSI’s Radio Equipment Directive (RED), and the Cyber Resilience Act. The chapter continues its involvement in key initiatives such as the GPos project, RFID & IO-Link, and SPOQ (AutoID & Security). It hosts expert groups focused on topics such as sensors, systems integration, recycling, and cybersecurity. Members are preparing for upcoming events, including the AIM Autumn Meeting (Nov. 5–7, 2025) and Spring Meeting (May 6–8, 2026), as well as participation in transport logistic 2025, RFID & Wireless IoT tomorrow, and LogiMAT 2026.

AIM Russia continues to contribute significantly to standards work in both national and international arenas. With 19 member companies, the chapter serves as the Secretariat for Russian and CIS standards committees (TC 355 and TC 517), and represents the country in ISO/IEC SC31. Its advocacy work supports the development of a national traceability system using RFID and DataMatrix, and it actively conducts user training and outreach. Notably, two new standards were approved in 2025: one on 2D barcode verification (GOST ISO/IEC 15426-2–2025) and another on RFID product tagging (GOST 35260–2025).

AIM India has had a dynamic year of engagement, including a highly attended RTLS in Healthcare webinar with over 80% participation. The chapter also took part in the National Conference on Food Tech, a national conclave at the Constitution Club of India, and the BRICS Medical Webinar. While the chapter is successfully expanding its footprint, there is a renewed emphasis on boosting visibility through LinkedIn and social sharing to better promote its ongoing work.

AIM China has played an integral role in the Prepackaged Food Digital Label Platform, supporting over 70 food companies in transitioning to digital labeling. This transformation has enhanced both consumer transparency and industry efficiency. AIM China also continues to prioritize knowledge-sharing and sector-wide digital capacity-building to accelerate adoption of RFID and IoT technologies.

AIM Denmark recently hosted the RFID & IoT in the Nordics 2025 Conference on June 12 at the IT University in Copenhagen. Themed “Data as the Digital Heartbeat,” the event focused on transparency and value creation in modern supply chains. Keynotes from industry leaders—including Zebra Technologies, St. James Hospitals, and Dansk Industri—explored how digital identification technologies transform healthcare, logistics, and public sector services. Panel discussions covered sovereign data markets, municipal IoT applications, and real-time visibility. The event featured a strong partner and exhibitor presence, solidifying AIM Denmark’s leadership in showcasing AIDC innovation in the region.

AIM Japan is actively monitoring RFID applications across various regulatory environments and is collaborating with libraries on encoding standards that align with ISO 28560-4. The chapter is also engaged in discussions with ISO TC46 to address data management challenges. On the sustainability front, AIM Japan is participating in ISO TC154 JP, which is contributing to the development of the Digital Product Passport—with an emphasis on transparency and interoperability in textiles, batteries, and other strategic sectors. The chapter also shared recent educational outreach efforts with junior high school students on POS systems and barcodes, with the goal of promoting broader understanding of AIDC terminology.

Meanwhile, AIM Asia, encompassing countries such as Japan, China, and Korea, continues to promote collaborative efforts through events such as AIDC Connect Asia 2025, to be held October 15–17 in Bangkok. This event is being co-organized with LogiMat Asia and the Thailand AIOT Association. Recent regional seminars have highlighted RFID-powered retail solutions and upcoming showcases from EM Microelectronic and SAG.

AIM Korea, jointly operated with the Korea Automatic Identification Industry Association (KAIIA), maintains a strong focus on technology innovation and workforce development. By emphasizing education and implementation of barcode, RFID, and IoT technologies, AIM Korea aims to position Korea as a leader in auto ID applications across multiple industries.

In AIM North America, the chapter continues to lead high-impact initiatives through its active work groups on Food Safety, Unique Device Identification (UDI), and the Cannabis industry. The chapter is also actively engaged in policy conversations, including FDA regulations and traceability frameworks, and produces a popular podcast series covering inventory, QR codes, cannabis, and smart packaging. North America is planning major engagements at trade shows like PACK EXPO, AHRMM, VARTECH;  and is collaborating with organizations such as the Reusable Packaging Association (RPA), GS1 US, and SMI on long-term strategic planning.

Globally, AIM has launched new Ad Hoc Groups to further drive engagement and recognition. The Women of AIDC initiative is amplifying the voices of women through podcasts, blogs, and features. Similarly, the Young Professionals of AIDC group has kicked off its work with a June 19 call and is creating video content and hosting roundtables to support early-career professionals.

New Supporting and Student membership categories will be introduced this year. AIM is also doubling down on promotional resources like the business directory and solutions showcase, which provide valuable exposure to the global AIDC community. Educational efforts remain a core priority, with hands-on AIDC 101 workshops held in Chicago and Las Vegas will be scheduled for the fall.

From harmonizing standards to driving digital labeling, elevating underrepresented voices, and supporting the next generation of industry leaders, AIM Chapters are a vital force in delivering on AIM’s mission to foster accurate, transparent, and efficient identification technologies worldwide.

Interested in getting involved or learning more about AIM Chapter activities? Contact AIM Chapter Liaison Michael Allen at mike@aimglobal.org.

Summer is shaping up to be an exciting season of momentum and collaboration across the AIM community. From educational initiatives to global working group efforts, there’s never been a better time to get involved and take advantage of the connections, knowledge, and leadership opportunities that AIM provides.

Next week, our Young Professionals group will meet on Thursday, June 19th to chart out the initiatives that will guide this community forward. This is a vibrant and growing group of emerging leaders in AIDC who are passionate about building their networks, elevating their voices, and helping shape the future of our industry. If you or someone on your team is interested in participating, reach out to staff liaison Michael Allen to get connected.

We’re also thrilled to announce that the Women of AIDC Town Hall will be held on Wednesday, August 20th at 11 AM ET. This open and engaging session provides an opportunity for women across the AIDC industry to share experiences, recognize key leaders in the space, and contribute to a more inclusive future. This meeting will also feature a TBA speaker who will be revealed in the next few weeks.  RSVP by contacting staff liaison Bethany Deane.

On the technical side, the RFID Experts Group (REG) continues its important work in partnership with the Retail Value Chain Federation (RVCF). The group met earlier this week to move forward on a follow-up to the widely used RFID FAQ, incorporating a new set of technical questions submitted by RVCF. A call for member comments on this new FAQ is now open and will run through June 20th. If you’re an AIM member and would like to review or contribute, contact Michael Allen for access to the documents and comment portal.

Looking ahead, the Visibility Technologies Industry Group will meet on Wednesday, June 25th at 10 AM ET. The team is working on an exciting new project: the development of an interactive landing page on the AIM website that will illustrate how a variety of technologies—including barcode, RFID, and IoT—converge to create total supply chain visibility. This page will provide an educational resource for newcomers and experienced professionals alike, showing the value of interoperability and real-time insights from production to the point of sale and beyond. To join the working session and contribute to this initiative, contact Michael Allen for an invite.

That’s just the beginning of a busy summer. We’re also preparing for our next Technical Symbology Committee (TSC) meeting. This group brings together the world’s top experts in barcode and symbology standards, focusing on technical guidance, best practices, and harmonization with global regulatory frameworks. TSC plays a crucial role in ensuring the accuracy and consistency of data that fuels automation and traceability systems worldwide.

Also on the horizon is our continued partnership with PACK EXPO Las Vegas, where AIM will host a special breakfast and educational session to highlight AIDC innovations in packaging, logistics, and manufacturing. We are also planning an expanded rollout of our AIDC 101 and a new 102 Workshop this fall, following great feedback from our recent sessions.

If you are already a member, keep an eye on your inbox for Membership Monday emails, where we share the latest opportunities, deadlines, and member-only content. Upcoming editions of our newsletter will also feature insights from our AIM Chapter Meetings held across the globe, spotlighting AIDC developments in key regions and industries.

Not yet a member? There has never been a better time to join AIM and become part of this active, global community. Whether you want to lend your voice to shaping standards, network with thought leaders, or help educate the next generation of AIDC professionals, AIM offers the platform to make an impact.

To learn more or get involved, contact us at info@aimglobal.org or visit https://www.aimglobal.org/. Let’s make this summer a season of progress, connection, and innovation.

Each year, the AIM Awards shine a spotlight on the visionaries, trailblazers, and contributors who help shape and grow the Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC) industry. These awards honor not only innovation and technical achievements, but also the people and organizations driving the global advancement of our industry’s technologies. If you or someone you know has made a significant impact in the AIDC space, submitting a nomination before the June 13 deadline is more than a chance at recognition; it is an opportunity to help elevate our entire industry.

Nominations are now open. You can submit your nominations here.

Let me break down each award and why it is worth your time to submit:

Richard Dilling Award
This is the most prestigious recognition in the AIDC industry. The Dilling Award has been honoring the best of the best since 1984—executives, engineers, scientists—those who have significantly contributed to the industry’s growth. If you have dedicated your career to advancing AIDC or led a major leap in its capabilities or adoption, this award is a badge of distinction and lasting legacy.

Paul Bergé International Business Development Award
If you or your organization has worked across borders to grow AIDC adoption, this award may suit you or your organization. Named for Paul Bergé, who made a career of expanding international markets, this award celebrates those who have left a global footprint. It recognizes the critical role international collaboration and outreach play in advancing technology and creating new opportunities for implementation worldwide.

Allan Gilligan Award
This award is especially relevant for those making AIDC work in the real world of logistics and supply chain. Named after a revolutionary developer of supply chain standards, the Gilligan Award recognizes individuals creating real, lasting impact through AIDC applications in materials handling. If you know someone who is solving operational challenges and enabling supply chain visibility with AIDC, nominate them today.

Clive Hohberger Technology Award
Named for Dr. Clive Hohberger, a respected technologist and inventor, this award celebrates those on the cutting edge. Whether you or someone you know are developing new technologies, writing code, designing hardware, or integrating systems, the Clive Hohberger Award recognizes the power of innovation.

Bert Moore Excellence in Journalism Award
The media shapes understanding and adoption. This award is for journalists or media professionals whose work has brought clarity, integrity, and education to the AIDC field. If you know someone who is telling the industry’s story—clearly, accurately, and with impact—this is your chance to celebrate their work.

Don Percival Award
Are you a user of AIDC who has transformed operations, improved traceability, or streamlined processes? This award is for individuals or organizations from the user community who demonstrate how impactful real-world applications can be. It celebrates implementation and the value AIDC brings when it meets practical business needs.

Ted Williams Award
This award is recgnition for educators, students, and researchers.  The Ted Williams Award honors those in academia or early-career innovators whose work is pushing boundaries and inspiring the next generation of AIDC professionals. If you know someone who is advancing the industry through research, entrepreneurship, or teaching, recognize them with a nomination.

Lifetime Achievement Award
Reserved for the giants among the industry, the Lifetime Achievement Award honors those whose careers have made an indelible impact on AIDC technology. If you know someone whose contributions have stood the test of time—across technologies like asset tracking, product verification, or IoT—nominate them to ensure their legacy is celebrated and remembered. 

Whether you or someone you know are a seasoned expert, an emerging innovator, or part of a team implementing game-changing technology, the AIM Awards offer a platform to recognize excellence and inspire the future of AIDC. Nominate someone (or yourself) today and help us celebrate the people and work that are propelling the industry forward.

Deadline to submit: June 13

Nominate here.

If you have additional questions about the awards, the AIM organization, or anything else contact Michael Allen.

On April 16, AIM hosted its inaugural AIDC 101 Workshop at the TSC facility in the Chicago area. This one-day, immersive experience was designed to introduce attendees to the foundational elements of automatic identification and data capture (AIDC) technologies. With over 20 participants in attendance, the workshop provided an ideal setting for both learning and networking, combining educational sessions with hands-on demonstrations from industry sponsors.

The day began with open access to sponsor tables, where attendees had the chance to explore demos and connect with leading solution providers from SpotSee, SICK, Zebra Technologies, Seagull, TEKLYNX and Metalcraft.  They also got to see AsReader and FEIG’s handheld equipment. The formal program launched soon after and featured four structured sessions that guided participants through the landscape of AIDC:

What is AIDC?

Equipment & Applications

The Current AIDC Landscape

AIDC Standards & Governing Bodies

Following the morning sessions, attendees participated in two rounds of hands-on breakout demonstrations, which brought the technologies and concepts to life in real-world scenarios. These included eight interactive stations, split between the “Generating Sample Solutions” session and “AIDC in Practice” session:

Generating Sample Solutions

Barcode Scanning

Participants tested both handheld and fixed barcode scanners, exploring how different scanning setups work in various environments.

RFID Reading

Hands-on exercises included scanning RFID tags with multiple reader types to understand range, tag orientation, and data read rates.

AIDC in Practice

Food Labeling & Traceability

This station explored how AIDC supports food safety and transparency across supply chains.

Inventory Count

Attendees used software platforms such as GreyTrunk to perform sample inventory operations.

The day concluded with an optional plant tour of TSC Printronix Auto ID, followed by an open Q&A, networking break, and certificate distribution to all attendees for completing the class.

The response from attendees was overwhelmingly positive. As one participant, Stephanie Podgor, Business Development & Marketing Specialist at TEGO, shared:

AIM extends its gratitude to all sponsors, speakers, and attendees who helped make this event a resounding success. The AIDC 101 Workshop demonstrated the value of combining education with application—and highlighted how AIM continues to support the growth and adoption of AIDC technologies.  Be on the lookout for future educational opportunities like this one!