Checkpoint Systems introduces CheckCare real-time service for electronic article surveillance customers

This article is brought to you by Retail Technology Review: Checkpoint Systems introduces CheckCare real-time service for electronic article surveillance customers.

Checkpoint Systems, a global supplier of shrink management, merchandise visibility and apparel labelling solutions for the retail industry and its supply chain, has introduced the CheckCare Real-time Service, offering its EVOLVE and Liberty/3G Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) customers the convenience of remote support for fast, streamlined service and maintenance.

CheckCare Real-time Service will include a globally applicable combination of modem hardware and an airtime provider to allow both the download and upload of data from an EAS installation, regardless of its location. The installation of a mobile wireless modem in each store location frees the retailer from having to provide any telecommunications equipment or IT connection points both stumbling blocks to remote service in the past. This is different from competing companies, which typically require customers to install a telephone line for remote service. Checkpoint will also take responsibility for facilitating hardware and airtime contracts as required.

"Retailers all over the world install EAS systems to protect their merchandise from theft," noted Etienne Maricq, Worldwide Vice President, Checkpoint Systems' Global Field Service organisation. "It is essential that the systems work efficiently, yet discreetly at all times. While Checkpoint's systems are among the most advanced and reliable in the industry, EAS systems do require proper maintenance for optimal performance.

"Checkpoint's Field Service organisation is known for providing responsive and competent on-site service to our retail customers when assistance is required. By expanding our service capabilities to provide real-time service, service and maintenance, we are providing customers with an even faster option and a potential alternative to an in-store visit."

The CheckCare Real-time Service will reduce retailers' cost of ownership by cutting down the wait time for service interventions for routine issues. It will also reduce environmental impact due to fewer service vehicles on the road. And, for cases where retail customers need a technician to physically visit their store, Checkpoint's industry-leading trained and certificated Field Service organisation will be on-hand to provide any necessary support.

A variety of service packages are available, from full, proactive support with KPI reporting to more basic support requiring stores to contact Checkpoint to request service, to meet the needs of different retailers.

In the event that service cannot be performed remotely, the CheckCare Real-time Service enables Checkpoint to identify the issue in advance of a technician visiting the store, which in turn reduces store disruption and system downtime as diagnostics are completed in advance.