More Than Just a Label – Why a Nationwide Retailer is Stuck on Stratix

The Challenge

A leading national tire retailer was experiencing a recurring and costly operational issue: standard adhesive labels wouldn’t stay on tire treads. The rubber’s surface—rich in oils and plasticizers—broke down traditional adhesives, causing labels to fall off prematurely. This led to inventory confusion, misidentification, and delays, ultimately affecting both store efficiency and customer satisfaction.

The Solution

As an existing partner of both Zebra and Stratix, the retailer was already using Zebra mobile devices and a laser-based tread depth reader to improve the accuracy and speed of tire inspections. Building on this partnership, Zebra developed a custom polypropylene RFID label engineered specifically for tire treads.

The label features:

• An aggressive adhesive that bonds securely to rubber without leaking or damaging printers
• RFID technology that enables fast, accurate, and touchless inventory tracking
• A durable construction built to withstand the tough conditions of tire storage and handling

Because RFID doesn’t require line-of-sight, staff can scan entire stacks or pallets of tires in seconds—significantly reducing labor, improving accuracy, and streamlining operations.

Stratix Makes It Better

Stratix took the solution a step further by integrating the custom labels into the retailer’s existing Stratix-managed ordering portal, the same one stores use to source Zebra mobile devices and accessories. This eliminated the retailer’s outdated, manual procurement process that relied on paper forms, email chains, and approval bottlenecks.

Now, store managers can:

• Log in, choose supplies, and schedule delivery in just a few clicks
• Track order status and access order history
• Order other critical print supplies like receipt rolls and printer ribbons from the same platform

To support cost efficiency, the RFID labels are produced in large batches. Stratix provides climate-controlled storage and just-in-time fulfillment, so stores always have what they need—without having to manage or store inventory themselves.

The Result

This solution showcases the power of the right label for the right job. While labels and printing supplies may seem like small details, they have a big impact on operations, compliance, and customer experience. Poor-quality supplies can cause delays, errors, and costly rework. But when they’re purpose-built and backed by a streamlined support system, they become an engine of efficiency.

By switching to Zebra’s custom RFID tire labels—and relying on Stratix to simplify access and fulfillment—the retailer resolved a long-standing pain point, improved accuracy and productivity, and delivered a more seamless experience for both employees and customers.

The result? Stronger performance at the store level and a healthier bottom line across the enterprise.

Want to learn more about how Stratix can solve your printing challenges? Reach out today for a consultation.