Checkpoint Systems enables retailers to obtain critical data and analytic intelligence with S3i RTLS Wireless In-Store Network

This article is brought to you by Retail Technology Review: Checkpoint Systems enables retailers to obtain critical data and analytic intelligence with S3i RTLS Wireless In-Store Network.

Checkpoint Systems, Inc., the global supplier of merchandise availability solutions for the retail industry, has announced the launch of S3i, a scalable RTLS (real time location system) wireless in-store network that works with enhanced Alpha High Theft Solutions' alarmed devices to obtain critical data and analytic intelligence, increasing sales, improving on-shelf availability and reducing shrink on high-value merchandise.

S3i's smart devices work in conjunction with smart keys to register all events, such as commissioning, removal of devices and theft. Through better and real-time stock visibility and shrink reduction, store managers are then able to increase sales. Better stock visibility allows retailers to know where the products are in real time, and also have a clear and accurate vision of the quantities, while the use of smart keys reduces both internal and external shrink.

S3i offers retailer's corporate management, store operations and loss prevention critical data on inventory quantity, location and movement of their high-value items within the store. For example, a store manager can have immediate visibility to all of the store's high-value merchandise protected with S3i devices.

When a shopper inquires about a specific item, the store associate can quickly locate it following the user-friendly graphical user interface. Any shoplifting attempt to remove the S3i device creates an immediate alert/alarm that enables store personnel to address according to store policies. In addition, any removal of the S3i device with an authorised key is logged and can help reduce incidents of internal theft.

According to Uwe Sydon, Senior Vice President of Innovation, Checkpoint Systems, "With S3i, the ability to reduce theft of high-risk merchandise and collect actionable retail intelligence just got easier. We're taking security to a whole new level, going beyond loss prevention, to reduce out-of-stocks, improve the shopper experience and generate operational efficiencies."

S3i Devices

Alpha's proven S3 CableLoks, Hard Tags and Spider Wraps have been enhanced by adding S3i technology, making them smart, and giving them the ability to let retailers know exactly where and what is happening with their high-value merchandise. Retailers are enabled to openly display high-risk merchandise such as electronics, designer apparel, luxury handbags and more, improving the shopping experience and increasing likelihood of sale.

Some large retailers are seeing the benefits as they are piloting S3i to create zones around high-risk merchandise and high-risk areas such as backrooms, fitting rooms, rest rooms and exits. With the technology, they are able to detect and deter shoplifting, organised retail crime and employee pilfering. S3i is customised to provide real-time notifications when merchandise enters or exits designated zones or when there is an attempted unauthorised removal of the device. It uses audible and/or visible alerts delivered to associates via smartphones, tablets, radio headsets, or public address systems. This enables retailers to track high-risk merchandise in real-time and respond more quickly to potential theft events.