Purpose - This paper provides an overview of the Electronic Product Code and related RFID standards that are currently being rolled out in the retail industry. Design/methodology/approach - It considers the EPC numbering schemes, air interface protocols, middleware aspects as well as scenarios for practical use. Findings - Identifies possibilities and limitations of EPC standards, the current status of technology adoption and future fields of application. Originality/value - Of interest to those concerned with RFID technology selection and infrastructure development.