Graphic Packaging International (GPI), a global consumer packaging leader, has successfully modernized its SAP-based manufacturing operations through strategic deployment of RFgen mobile barcoding solutions. The implementation not only addresses critical operational challenges but also positions the company for future SAP S/4HANA migration and international expansion. The rollout of RFgen’s mobile barcoding solution began at 25 North American sites, with plans to extend further into international production. According to a case study published by RFgen, early results include efficiency improvements of 25% efficiency improvements and 30% productivity gains in critical supply chain processes, coupled with high user adoption and reduced training requirements.

From Legacy Processes to SAP-Integrated Mobile Workflows

Before adopting RFgen, GPI relied on legacy systems that were unable to keep pace with rising product demand. Manual data entry introduced frequent errors, slowed fulfillment processes, and created compliance risks. The company’s task force concluded that any replacement needed to be SAP-certified and designed for minimal downtime. RFgen Mobile Foundations for SAP emerged as the optimal solution, offering native integration with any SAP deployment—cloud or on-premises—while supporting single-tier, two-tier, and multi-tier ERP landscapes. The zero-footprint design on the SAP environment proved particularly attractive, allowing data collection and communication from virtually any device while transacting against existing business rules using the SAP database. GPI implemented the solution on a phased rollout basis, beginning with North American manufacturing facilities averaging 150 users each. The deployment strategy proved highly effective, with RFgen consultants providing initial training that enabled GPI to develop internal expertise. Subsequently, GPI's RFgen-trained teams could train additional manufacturing facilities, reducing training time by 80% and accelerating deployment across the organization. Planned international deployments add complexity, requiring support for multiple languages across GPI’s global manufacturing footprint, including English, French Canadian, French, British English, Catalan, Spanish, Dutch, German, and Canadian English variants.

What This Means for SAP Insiders

Mobile barcoding integration drives measurable ROI in SAP environments. GPI’s 25% efficiency boost and 30% productivity gains underscore the value of embedding mobile workflows directly into ERP systems. The implementation's success stems from RFgen's ability to enhance existing SAP functionality without requiring extensive customization or disruption to established workflows. This approach minimizes implementation risk while maximizing operational improvements across manufacturing processes. Case studies confirm that adoption challenges can be successfully overcome. GPI reduced training time by 80% while achieving high user acceptance across 25 facilities, showing that mobile-first tools can scale effectively. Schwing America, a manufacturer of concrete pumps and truck mixers, achieved 99.9% inventory accuracy, cut transaction times by 75%, and reported rapid user adoption as employees embraced RFgen’s intuitive SAP-integrated mobile barcoding system. For SAP customers, these examples demonstrate that cultural change is manageable when solutions align with existing workflows. The key is implementing mobile barcoding as an enhancement, not a disruption, to SAP operations. SAP leaders must prioritize integration, scalability, and compliance. When evaluating providers, executives should demand SAP-certified solutions. Key requirements include compatibility with both SAP ECC and SAP S/4HANA migrations, support for multi-language deployments, and proven scalability across distributed operations. Successful programs also create internal centers of excellence, reducing training costs and accelerating global deployments. By focusing on solutions that protect business rules and governance, SAP leaders ensure smoother adoption.