Food traceability network ReposiTrak has entered a strategic partnership with US-headquartered store operations technology provider Upshop.  

Combining their technology platforms, the partners aim to bridge traceability data from the supply chain to retail stores, delivering a seamless traceability solution from start to finish. 

The alliance will integrate ReposiTrak's supplier network and shipment traceability data with Upshop's network of more than 450 retailers. 

The integration will facilitate a comprehensive programme that not only complies with the US Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Food Safety Modernization Act Section 204d (FSMA 204), but also opens avenues for margin enhancement and growth by merging supply chain data with store data.  

This synergy aims to refine inventory management, labour allocation and customer experience through advanced automation. 

Upshop chief innovation and strategy officer Mark Hawthorne said: "Traceability requires data from the supply chain and – importantly – confirmation at the retail store that the proper and accurate lot code data from each shipment has been captured when the product is received. The missing piece for us has been the supply chain data. ReposiTrak is the leader in capturing and managing supply chain data, starting with the suppliers. Together, we can deliver a single, comprehensive traceability solution.”  

FSMA 204 mandates retailers to track key data elements at the store level for every consignment comprising high-risk food items listed on the food traceability list.  

With major industry players already committing to enhanced traceability measures ahead of the FDA's enforcement deadline of 20 January 2026, there is a definite momentum within the industry towards adopting such systems proactively. 

ReposiTrak and Upshop's collaboration promises grocers a seamless compliance pathway with FSMA 204 from source to store.  

It also offers enhanced visibility into supply chain data that can be leveraged to optimise operational efficiency and diminish shrinkage and waste while driving sales growth. 

ReposiTrak chairman and CEO Randy Fields said: “Our partnership combines ReposiTrak’s strength in traceability data management and connectivity with Upshop’s broad base of retail technology. 

“Together, our existing platforms make traceability even easier for retailers and their suppliers. It allows the traceability requirements to be achieved without adding steps to the check-in process and without retooling legacy systems.”