It looks like they are more in to the supply side of the equation.
Walden
UCCnet® Data Pool Services Benefits
The UCCnet Data Pool allows companies to realize proven savings and increase supply chain efficiency.
UCCnet addresses:
* Accuracy of information that drives efficiencies throughout the supply chain * Challenges of getting new products rapidly to market and lost shelf time * The need for reliable data that will drive productivity improvements * Conflicting product definitions, partner location, and profile information in the supply chain * Support for global standards
UCCnet provides:
* Global Data Synchronization Network (GDSN) Certified Data Pool Services * A neutral industry source ( UCCnet Data Pool Services ) where retailers can locate product and partner information within the GDSN * Accurate data distribution in near-real time transactions among trading partners * Automation of product lifecycle processes such as new item introduction and maintenance * Verification of compliance to global EAN•UCC System standards
UCCnet data synchronization benefits include :
* Substantial direct cost savings to your bottom line through the elimination of data errors * Greater market opportunity due to accelerated time-to-market, and unprecedented market visibility for products in the industry * New top-line revenue opportunities though the simplified and streamlined set-up of new vendor or buyer relationships * Unprecedented data integrity, which forms the basis for advanced, collaborative business strategies such as Collaborative Planning, Forecasting and Replenishment (CPFR®), Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI), and Scan-Based Trading * Assurance that you can trust your data to the most experienced developer in the industry * Security of your data: UCCnet services provide a secure e-commerce environment, ensuring that only those with appropriate authorization can access or view your data * No ramp up time training your Solution Partner – The UCC Solution Partner Program insures that there are industry-specific, supply-side and demand-side Solution Partners certified by the UCC to implement their solution
Benefits realized by utilizing UCCnet Data Pool Services and global data synchronization:
* Total benefits are in the range of $1 additional earnings for every $1000 of sales * ½ - 1% reduction in inventory * 3 – 5% reduction in shelf out-of-stocks * Two week reduction in speed to market for new items
Very interesting and positive but looking at that it brings up one question. Would it be possible for big retailers such as walmart to bypass the patents by having their own instore sevices linked through their own instore information provider?