DALLAS, June 14, 2005 - Kimberly-Clark Corporation (NYSE:KMB) today announced the company will begin formal testing of Generation 2 Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) hardware this summer. The Generation 2 hardware provides a universal solution to RFID technology on a global basis, replacing numerous and incompatible systems with one system used worldwide.
"Today's announcement further establishes Kimberly-Clark as a pioneer in the adoption and implementation of RFID technology," said Cheryl Perkins, Kimberly-Clark's Senior Vice President and Chief Technical Officer. "This test will ensure we identify the most effective Generation 2 RFID hardware that, when employed, will increase our productivity through the streamlining of our supply chain management on a worldwide basis. In turn, this will provide customers with a winning, innovative solution that helps drive value for both of us."
The Generation 2 RFID hardware to be tested includes tags, readers, printers, and applicators. The tests, scheduled to begin July 6th at Kimberly-Clark's dedicated RFID research lab in Neenah, Wis., will allow the company to determine which hardware is the most compatible with its conveyor, packing, logistics and shipping systems.
"Generation 2 RFID hardware has advanced greatly over the past few months, providing increased ranges in reading product tags, as well as a more consistent read rate of pallets and cases," said Mike O'Shea, Director of Kimberly-Clark's Auto-ID Sensing Technologies. "We are one of the few end user companies that have the ability to thoroughly test this new generation of hardware in a real-world environment. It gives us the ability to determine which Generation 2 hardware will best serve Kimberly-Clark globally - whether installed in North America, Asia-Pacific or Europe."
About Kimberly-Clark
Kimberly-Clark and its well-known global brands are an indispensable part of life for people in more than 150 countries. Every day, 1.3 billion people - nearly a quarter of the world's population - trust K-C brands and the solutions they provide to enhance their health, hygiene and well being. With brands such as Kleenex, Scott, Huggies, Pull-Ups, Kotex and Depend, Kimberly-Clark holds the No. 1 or No. 2 share position in more than 80 countries. To keep up with the latest K-C news and to learn more about the company's 133-year history of innovation visit: www.kimberly-clark.com.