AUTONOMOUS RETAIL
The smarter future of autonomous retail By Graham Swallow, Axis Communications
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While the foundation of autonomous retail has been built up over the past few years, it is only now that retailers are beginning to fully experiment with the technology. Indeed, a small number of businesses have already forged ahead, including Amazon with the expansion of its Amazon Go chain and related app now seeing a rollout across US and UK. This acceleration in the growth of unmanned retail stores has, in part, been boosted by the COVID-19 pandemic and a demand for a more contactless, socially-distanced shopping experience.
This is where physical security technologies can play a significant role in protecting a site while supporting operation.
Many retailers are now exploring such solutions as a way to streamline their services and simplify store operations while reducing overheads. Of course, the security of unmanned sites is a concern, with many retailers eager to embrace such a design, but wary about the prospect of leaving a store unguarded.
These cameras are monitored and operated remotely from a central control room, offering management full visibility of operations, regardless of the number of stores. Recorded video material can be processed and passed to authorities when necessary, in accordance with applicable laws.
A digital solution to optimise security, improve service and boost profits A flexible, comprehensive solution which improves security and access at its stores helps to make the autonomous retail vision a reality. Network cameras can be employed to monitor entrance points and sales areas, including checkout terminals.
Access control mechanisms at entrance and exit points enable smooth, touchfree access to customers, while IP audio speakers can enable ambient music to create a relaxed in-store atmosphere, while also offering the ability to play alerts or voice messages as required. As autonomous stores do not require staff to be present and can be accessible 24/7, this serves to improve customer experience and loyalty, and ultimately increases sales. In fact, utilising data from the access control system, management can configure lights to turn on/off and ambient music to power-down when the last person leaves the shop, to be reactivated the next time someone enters the premises. This approach can conserve energy, leading to cost savings. Designing a future-proof solution In-store physical security technology should be reliable and of a high quality, without compromising customer experience.
