FAQ
Electronic Shelf Labels: Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to the questions store owners ask us most. Don't see yours? Email info@keypointdigital.ca or ask when you request a quote.
What are electronic shelf labels?
Electronic shelf labels (ESLs) are small, battery-powered digital displays that replace paper price tags on store shelves. You set prices in a cloud dashboard, and a wireless gateway in your store sends each change to the right label in seconds. Read our full guide to what electronic shelf labels are and how they work.
Are digital labels the same as electronic shelf labels?
Yes. Electronic shelf label (ESL) is the industry term, and digital labels, digital shelf labels, and digital price tags are everyday names for the same thing: small digital displays that replace paper price tags on store shelves.
What sizes do digital labels come in?
Our labels range from 1.5 to 7.5 inches. The main sizes are 1.54, 2.13, 2.66, 2.7, 2.9, 3.5, 4.2, and 7.5 inches. Most sizes come in a standard version and a newer ultra-thin version.
Do digital labels come in colour?
Yes. Labels come in 3-colour (black, white, and red) and 4-colour (black, white, red, and yellow) versions. Red and yellow are handy for making sale prices and promotions stand out.
What can I show on a digital label?
Layouts are fully customizable. A label can show regular and sale prices, product names, unit pricing, origin, promotion dates, barcodes, QR codes, icons, and simple graphics such as your logo. It can also show details like lot numbers, expiry dates, and aisle location.
Can digital labels be used in freezers?
Yes. Freezer-rated labels are available for frozen food sections. Let us know about your freezer sections when you request a quote.
How much do electronic shelf labels cost?
Electronic shelf labels from Keypoint Digital range from $7 to $85 USD per label, depending on screen size. Larger labels cost more, as do the ultra-thin and 4-colour versions. Your total also includes the in-store gateway, accessories for your shelves, setup, and a monthly cloud platform fee, which vary with the number of labels. Every project is quoted individually. See our electronic shelf labels cost guide for what drives the total.
Are electronic shelf labels worth it for a small store?
They can be, especially if your prices change often or tags take up staff time every week. Digital labels remove the printing and swapping, and they help keep shelf prices in step with the prices you set. Whether they pay off for your store comes down to how often your prices change and what your current process costs you. An itemized quote makes that comparison easier.
Can I lease electronic shelf labels instead of buying?
Yes. Leasing is available alongside purchase, and lease terms are set in your quote. If you're not sure which suits you, ask for both options when you request a quote.
Do you quote in CAD or USD?
Our prices are in USD. Quotes in CAD are available on request, so just mention it when you get in touch.
How are electronic shelf labels installed?
Your labels and gateway arrive pre-configured and ready to mount, and accessories are available based on your type of shelves. We handle setup remotely and train your staff by video, or you can self-install. On-site help may also be available in some areas.
Will digital labels fit my shelves?
Yes. Accessories are available based on your type of shelves, so your labels fit properly and look professional. Tell us what kind of shelving you have when you request a quote.
How long does it take to switch from paper tags?
It depends on your shelves and on who mounts the labels. Labels arrive pre-configured, so once the accessories for your shelving are in place, the labels themselves go up quickly. We'll talk through timing with you when we prepare your quote.
How many gateways does my store need?
Each gateway covers roughly 3,000 sq ft (about 280 m²). Stores larger than that typically need two or more. We work out the right number for your store, based on its size, as part of your quote.
Do you serve stores outside Ontario?
Yes. We're based in Ontario, serving retailers across Canada and the US. Because labels ship pre-configured and setup and training happen remotely, your location doesn't change how we work with you.
How do I change prices on digital labels?
Change a price in the cloud dashboard from a phone, tablet, or computer, import changes from a spreadsheet, or let them come through from your connected POS system. The label on the shelf updates in seconds.
Do electronic shelf labels work with my POS system?
They can. Prices can be updated from the dashboard, imported by spreadsheet, or connected to many POS systems. We confirm compatibility with your system during the quote, so ask us about your system.
How long do ESL batteries last?
Each label uses a coin-cell battery rated for up to 5 years at five price updates per day. Most stores update prices less often than that. When a battery runs down, it's easy to replace.
What happens if the internet goes down?
Nothing changes on your shelves. Whatever is on a label stays there until it's changed, and labels only need a connection to receive new changes. Once you're back online, you can send changes again.
What happens if a label breaks?
Every label comes with a 12-month warranty. If you have a problem with a label, email info@keypointdigital.ca and we'll reply within one business day.
What support do you offer?
We set up your platform remotely, train your staff by video, and stay available for support by email. Write to info@keypointdigital.ca and we'll reply within one business day. You can read more about how we work.