SATO Success: Global Retailer Transforms Printing with SATO AEP

When one of the world’s largest retailers needed a more flexible, efficient, and intuitive printing solution, SATO stepped in with a powerful answer. By leveraging our AEP (Application Enabled Printing) technology on the PW4 mobile printer, we delivered a solution that simplified workflows, improved compatibility, and unlocked new levels of efficiency in-store.

Retail Giant with Global Reach

This leading multinational retail corporation operates a vast network of supercenters, discount department stores, and grocery outlets across the United States and in 23 other countries. Known for their commitment to operational excellence, they require every piece of technology in their stores to perform seamlessly under high-volume, high-pressure conditions.

The Challenge: Compatibility and Efficiency at Scale

The retailer’s Central America division sought a second supplier for mobile thermal printers used across their stores. Their existing operations relied on multiple printing applications, each sending labels in different print languages. These applications also issued specialized status commands before printing to confirm the printer’s readiness. Unfortunately, many of these commands were undocumented and incompatible with non-Zebra printers—creating a barrier for introducing new hardware into their ecosystem.

The SATO Solution: Intelligent, Adaptive Printing

SATO America deployed the PW4 mobile printer equipped with a custom AEP application to overcome these challenges. This solution was purpose-built to integrate seamlessly with the retailer’s existing systems while adding unique functionality:

• Instead of attaching a physical barcode to each printer, the AEP app dynamically displayed it on the LCD screen. This allowed store associates to quickly scan the code at startup, enabling the printing app to instantly connect to the correct printer.

• We rapidly developed support for the retailer’s undocumented status commands, accelerating their testing and approval process while boosting satisfaction with SATO’s responsiveness.

• The AEP app automatically detected the type of label being printed and adjusted printer settings on the fly. This eliminated the need for associates to manually select profiles—reducing errors, saving time, and ensuring perfect print results every time.

The Results: Simpler, Smarter, Faster Printing

The AEP-powered PW4 mobile printer outperformed the incumbent solution by simplifying workflows and reducing training needs. Store associates could now focus on customer service rather than troubleshooting printer profiles. With faster setup, seamless integration, and smarter automation, SATO earned a competitive edge as a trusted printing partner for one of retail’s biggest names.

Solutions That Work as Hard as You Do

At SATO, we design solutions that adapt to your operations—not the other way around. Whether you need mobile printing, automated workflows, or industry-leading support, we deliver technology that keeps pace with your business. Ready to simplify your printing? Let’s get started.