As regulatory landscapes continue to evolve across industries, AIM and its member-led groups are actively monitoring and influencing key standards that directly impact the future of identification technologies. Today, we are highlighting three critical areas of standards activity where AIM is engaging on behalf of our members:<\/p>\n
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Alcohol Labeling Reform \u2013 Visibility Technologies Industry Group<\/strong><\/p>\n The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) has proposed sweeping changes to alcohol beverage labeling that would bring new transparency requirements to the industry. The proposed rule would mandate an \u201cAlcohol Facts\u201d panel on all beverage alcohol labels governed under the Federal Alcohol Administration Act (FAA Act), including:<\/p>\n In addition, mandatory alcohol content statements would now extend to certain malt beverages, wines, and beers currently exempt from such labeling.<\/p>\n This initiative stems from a 2022 Treasury Department report aimed at increasing competition and consumer awareness in the alcohol sector. The proposed compliance timeline is five years following publication of a final rule, with public comments due by August 15, 2025.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n AIM\u2019s Visibility Technologies Industry Group (VTIG) is monitoring this closely, particularly as it relates to how AIDC technologies such as QR codes and digital labels can help producers and distributors meet these emerging requirements efficiently and cost-effectively.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n FCC Cyber Trust Mark \u2013 Visibility Technologies Industry Group<\/strong><\/p>\n In another area under the Visibility Group\u2019s watch, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is progressing its U.S. Cyber Trust Mark (USCTM) program. Designed to increase consumer confidence in connected devices, the program sets baseline cybersecurity standards and labeling protocols for Internet of Things (IoT) products.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n UL Solutions, selected as Lead Administrator for the program in late 2024, has been working to submit its technical recommendations to the FCC. Although the initial submission was due in early May, an extension was granted through June 13, 2025, to ensure thorough consideration of the complex cybersecurity and post-market surveillance requirements.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The FCC is also doing a review of the Cyber Trust Mark program, and its outcome could have significant implications for the future of the initiative and IoT security.\u00a0<\/p>\n <\/p>\n With many AIM members involved in connected product development, from industrial sensors to consumer smart devices,\u00a0the final outcome of this labeling framework will have long-term impacts. The Visibility Industry group is tracking the proceedings and ensuring the interests and concerns of our community are represented.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Digital Product Passport (DPP) \u2013 New AIM Ad Hoc Working Group<\/strong><\/p>\n As part of the EU\u2019s ongoing push for sustainability and circular economy initiatives, the Digital Product Passport (DPP) standard is poised to dramatically alter how products are labeled, tracked, and traced across global supply chains. AIM has launched a dedicated ad hoc working group to review the forthcoming draft and prepare a formal response.<\/p>\n The DPP standard will influence:<\/p>\n This initiative is of particular importance to members involved in manufacturing, packaging, and data exchange. AIM\u2019s expertise in automatic identification and data capture (AIDC) positions us to play a meaningful role in shaping practical, interoperable, and scalable standards.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Michael Allen<\/strong> is coordinating this effort and will begin scheduling member review sessions shortly after the draft\u2019s release. Comments will be finalized in early August in time for AIM Board review and submission.<\/p>\n If your organization wants a seat at the table during this pivotal development, we invite you to contact Michael Allen directly<\/a><\/strong> to participate in the working group.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Why This Matters<\/strong><\/p>\n From regulatory compliance to sustainability and consumer trust, these developments represent major shifts in how data is captured, conveyed, and validated across industries. AIM\u2019s role is to keep our members informed, involved, and ahead of the curve.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n If you\u2019re part of an AIM member company and want to join the Visibility Technologies Industry Group or participate in the DPP review team, now is the time to get engaged.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n For questions or to get involved, contact:<\/p>\n\n
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