Kimball tags have the following disadvantages:
- Batch processed - most solutions using Kimball tags used batch processing, preventing true real-time analytics.
- Environmentally limited - the cardboard/paper tag must be detachable from the product, cannot be printed onto packaging, and cannot be sealed to prevent moisture damage etc.
- Cost - tag production and reading requires specialist equipment. Barcodes could be created on most thermal labelling systems and can be read by a variety of low cost camera solutions.
As such Kimball tags were highly suitable for the fashion industry, but did not lend themselves to other product markets.