In pursuing enhanced safety and operational effectiveness by 2026, Interface Systems, a managed service provider known for its remote video monitoring and commercial security systems, has highlighted key trends poised to shape safety protocols in retail, restaurant, and broader commercial sectors.
The company foresees a pronounced shift towards proactive security measures, an increase in AI-driven analytics for operational efficiency, greater reliance on human oversight within AI systems, and stricter regulatory standards.
Proactive security measures and AI-driven solutions
Advanced video analytics are set to play a pivotal role in mitigating incidents such as loitering, vandalism
The security strategies of commercial entities, including retail and restaurant chains, car washes, and auto service centres, are expected to increasingly prioritise exterior-focused preventive measures. These initiatives aim to detect and address potential threats at an early stage, thus preventing their escalation.
Advanced video analytics are set to play a pivotal role in mitigating incidents such as loitering, vandalism, and break-ins in real time. By integrating AI-driven detection systems with remote video monitoring, businesses can thwart criminal activities before they occur, significantly reducing damage and loss costs.
Human oversight in AI-enabled security
While AI-enabled cameras have achieved high levels of accuracy in detection and classification, security strategies must address the challenge posed by continually evolving criminal tactics. As such, businesses are likely to integrate Security Operations Centre (SOC) services to provide crucial human oversight.
This hybrid approach ensures that expert analysts are on hand to manage exceptions, investigate ongoing threats, and uphold comprehensive security strategies.
Impact of regulatory changes on security protocols
Retailers failing to implement robust security measures may face substantial financial consequences
With anticipated tighter scrutiny from both insurers and lawmakers, 2026 is expected to witness an elevation in physical security standards. Retailers failing to implement robust security measures may face substantial financial consequences, such as policy cancellations.
For example, jewellers in New York risk losing insurance coverage if they lack protections against sophisticated threats, including cell jamming. Concurrently, legal requirements are intensifying; notably, the New York Retail Worker Safety Act mandates that retailers establish comprehensive violence prevention programmes and install silent response buttons for larger employers. Physical security firms must, therefore, innovate to meet new regulatory demands and satisfy insurers' stringent risk criteria.
Widespread adoption of video analytics
Beyond enhancing security, video analytics are set to become widely adopted to boost operational performance. Businesses are expected to increasingly utilise these applications to monitor factors such as service speed, drive-thru efficiency, food-handling compliance, store layout optimisation, and checkout waiting times. Additionally, video analytics will aid in managing potential safety risks like slip-and-fall incidents. These innovations aim to streamline operations, elevate customer experience, and maintain a competitive advantage.
Sean Foley, Chief Revenue Officer at Interface Systems, stated, “Looking ahead to 2026, businesses that combine proactive deterrence, AI-driven video analytics, and expert human oversight will be best positioned to stay ahead of evolving threats. To ensure long-term success in retail and restaurant security, our focus remains on developing solutions that prevent crime, enhance efficiency, and maintain compliance.”
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