Retail surveillance

Attracting trade visitors from across the subcontinent, the region’s most influential trade fair for the security industry, Secutech India, is scheduled to return for its 9th edition from 7 – 9 May 2020 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai. With exhibitor registration still open, the fair has already attracted more than 350 of the world’s leading security brands with less than three months remaining before it commences. The 2020 exhibition will feature Axis Communication, CP Plus, Hikvision, ZKTeco, Infinova, Matrix, Toshiba and many more. Security devices and turnkey solutions The 2020 edition of Secutech India is set to reflect the country’s digital transformation Detailing the business value of the fair, Ms Regina Tsai, the General Manager of Messe Frankfurt New Era Business Media Ltd said: “Catering to local market requirements such as cost efficiency and a need for fast project implementation, Secutech India assembles the full range of security devices and turnkey solutions under a single roof. Benefiting from its position in Mumbai, India’s commercial centre, last year the fair attracted more than 20,000 buyers travelling from across India’s main regions, and we are looking forward to welcoming even more business this coming May.” The 2020 edition of Secutech India is set to reflect the country’s digital transformation. IP cameras are in high demand from SMEs, retail and the residential segment, while biometric access control systems are also gaining popularity in offices and at border controls, with users gradually favouring contactless systems such as facial recognition above fingerprint biometrics. Core security solutions In the view of Ms Tsai, this year’s fair is taking place at a favourable time for the regional industry: “The government aims to transform India into an electronics export hub, which will open up new opportunities for component manufacturers catering to the local manufacturing sector. But just as importantly, as part of India’s proposed Union Budget 2020, infrastructure development across roads, railway, airports, ports, and economic corridors are expected to raise demand for core security solutions including video surveillance, video analytics, biometrics and intruder detection systems." "The governments ‘Digital India’, ‘Smart City Mission’, and ‘Technology Empowerment’ initiatives will also be growth drivers.”  Access control in healthcare facilities As a maturing security market, the appetite for knowledge in India is growing" Among many benefits, the ability to make onsite comparisons, conduct meaningful business discussions and view product demonstrations are a few of the show elements that visitor’s to Secutech India value. According to Ms Tsai, business effectiveness is the top priority for the fair’s organisers: “Initiatives such as the ‘Secutech connect’ business matching service which links buyers with exhibitors based on industry background continue to be highly popular, helping us to generate genuine business outcomes for participants.” But beyond business, information exchange is also a priority says Ms Tsai: “As a maturing security market, the appetite for knowledge in India is growing. This is a need that the upcoming edition of Secutech India will cater for with a series of conferences dealing with topics relevant to the local market, including cyber security, smart city digital infrastructure; the convergence of 5G, artificial intelligence, data analytics and the IoT; access control in healthcare facilities, and fire safety in elderly care homes and restaurants.” Personal protection equipment In addition to its core focus on security, Secutech India 2020, in cooperation with the GPS Association of India, will feature a pavilion dedicated to fleet management, vehicle tracking as well as passenger and driver safety. The concurrent ‘Fire and Safety India’ event will also return as the destination for trade buyers to locate the latest firefighting gear, personal protection equipment and smoke detection systems.

Checkpoint Systems has unveiled a host of new, pioneering solutions at EuroShop 2020 that demonstrate how technology can help brands navigate the evolving retail landscape. The only fully vertically integrated solutions provider, Checkpoint, has developed an extensive understanding of the complex challenges presented by the retail digital transformation. And, its collaboration with leading retailers, such as LPP and Desigual, demonstrates how it is building an agile, responsive in-store environment, improving operations and creating a game-changing customer experience. Helping retailers fulfil omnichannel orders in-store, Checkpoint revealed the latest upgrades to its Internet of Things (IoT) platform HALO.  Simplify omnichannel orders with RFID The platform uses RFID-driven inventory data to drive the distribution of orders to stores. Staff, then, receive easy-to-use order information including the location of items and schedule for shipment or in-store pickup. RFID is proven to elevate inventory accuracy from 65-75% to 93-99%1, with the capability to transform omnichannel and task management functionality. HALO uses RFID technology and accurate inventory data to help distribute orders among stores based on availability.Retail operators are further supported by the HALO mobile app. This presents store staff with the order information and helps schedule fulfilment – locating the items and preparing for pickup or shipment. The new functionality will improve in-store productivity, increase the Units Per Hour fulfilled, whilst boosting sales and customer satisfaction. Future proof visual merchandising Across the retail industry, competition and consumer expectations continue to intensify “We continuously invest in logistics and IT to streamline the consumer-oriented omnichannel model. With HALO’s new in-store fulfilment functionality, we expect to further optimise operations through inventory accuracy, creating a new level of customer satisfaction,” says Daniel Muñoz, Operations Director of international fashion brand, Desigual. Across the retail industry, competition and consumer expectations continue to intensify. Checkpoint is helping retailers entice customers into stores with a revolutionary new video advertising and loss prevention solution, the Digital Display antenna. Proven to increase sales opportunities, digital signage in stores encourages customers to spend up to 30% more time browsing, with 4 out of 5 brands experiencing additional sales of up to 33%. Protect metal products and metallic packaging The pioneering hybrid solution from Checkpoint is capable of broadcasting high impact video content to compel customers to enter stores while offering retailers full EAS functionality. Reinforcing its position as a global provider of source-to-shopper solutions, Checkpoint also unveiled the world’s first RF label for metal products and metallic packaging at EuroShop 2020. Historically, retailers with RF EAS had very limited options to protect products in metal packaging, leaving high-risk items vulnerable on shop shelves. The revolutionary new RF Metal Label has been developed specifically for high-value, sought-after products, such as infant milk formula and multi-packs of energy drinks. It has now been deployed across six European countries, with widespread positive feedback. Further expanding the capability and performance of its labelling innovations, Checkpoint also announced the launch of the first inlays with the Impinj M700 tag chip family, including a new version of its unique UNO RF/RFID label. Improved label performance and sustainability Checkpoint is helping to mitigate body shielding, which can affect the performance of the individual technologies The patented and fully integrated UNO RF/RFID label features all-new RFID chip options, including the recently launched Impinj M750 chip. The new label simultaneously offers retailers the benefits of EAS protection and RFID inventory management when paired with the appropriate hardware and software. This means only one label is required, helping to further decrease labour costs and process time. By combining RF and RFID technologies, Checkpoint is also helping to mitigate body shielding and shadowing, which can affect the performance of the individual technologies. With store aesthetics playing a crucial role in driving sales conversions, retailers are turning to open merchandising solutions to create engaging in-store experiences. Helping expand display opportunities, Checkpoint has unveiled a range of highly anticipated Alpha High Theft Solutions. Enhance product protection with Alpha High Theft Solutions Among the products launched at EuroShop 2020, Checkpoint demonstrated its new ShoeLok – a unique alarm tag that attaches to footwear without damaging the merchandise. Also on display, customised keepers, suitable for a diverse range of products, highlighted how retailers can protect brand aesthetics while improving visibility and sales. And, to protect against shoplifters increasingly using counterfeit, stolen or illegally acquired detachers to defeat ‘on-product’ solutions, Checkpoint unveiled its S3VX solution. The unique range of security keys uses advanced encryption technology to send a verification code to disarm on-product tags, during which time the device can then be opened using an extra-strength S3x magnet. Uncover the next generation of EAS solutions Checkpoint was also joined at EuroShop by international fashion brand, Desigual and Polish clothing company, LPP With the role of bricks and mortar stores changing, retailers are turning to new formats to improve the in-store experience for customers. Checkpoint’s innovative antenna designs demonstrate how brands can achieve record-breaking detection with a solution for every store format and industry. The broad product range of EAS antennas includes many varieties, from unobtrusive in-lane protection to free-standing wall or door mounted sensors, powered by Checkpoint’s connected NEO electronics platform. Checkpoint was also joined at EuroShop by international fashion brand, Desigual and Polish clothing company, LPP. Patrice Bahuaud of Checkpoint Systems and LPP’s Alexander Yashin presented the results of its large-scale RFID programme which saw improved merchandise availability, operational efficiency and the consumer experience. Demonstrating retail excellence While Desigual’s Matilde González Carvajal and Joan Amat Riera discussed the implementation and implications of their latest project: HALO. The RFID technology system, which has been applied to omnichannel orders to increase store productivity, sales and customer satisfaction. Fran Zanier, EMEA Marketing Director at Checkpoint Systems, commented: “As the only vertically integrated solutions provider, we have a comprehensive understanding of the complex challenges retailers face. We continue to demonstrate how we are working with retailers around the world to improve financial performance and deliver a seamless customer experience. We’re delighted with the reception from visitors at our booth at EuroShop 2020 as we continue to support and inspire the future of retail intelligence.”

Technology company Ocucon has developed a lighter version of their VSaaS product, Cloud by Ocucon, allowing retailers to now benefit from innovative cloud technology for a select number of cameras. Cirrus Cloud by Ocucon is a lightweight, highly flexible version of Cloud by Ocucon. It will have all the features of its bigger brother but, in response to retailer demand, it has been optimised to work in a modular fashion for up to eight cameras per store. In-store surveillance and storage Research conducted by the company found that 99% of incidents were caught by just a third of all cameras in a typical retail outlet. This means that on average just eight cameras caught the ‘sweet spot’ of incidents. Cirrus Cloud by Ocucon provides an in-store surveillance and storage service in HD, captured continuously over a 24/7 period, in the cloud for up to eight cameras per store. We see this as an opportunity to introduce our ground-breaking technology to an increased variety of clients" The service will also provide an incident and case management reporting tool that will enable easy access, analysis and retrieval of incidents. Gary Trotter, Co-Founder of Ocucon said: “We are always listening to feedback from our clients and we realised that by re-investing in new technology, we could offer this exciting new product to suit a wider range of retailers and their needs." Easy access surveillance storage "Cirrus Cloud works in a modular fashion, so that we can ensure that the footage from those ‘sweet spot’ cameras can be easily stored, analysed and retrieved. We see this as an opportunity to introduce our ground-breaking technology to an increased variety of clients both on a national and international scale.” Ocucon developed Cloud by Ocucon, their unlimited VSaaS system to address the need for easy access surveillance storage, to avoid fraudulent cases of slips, trips and falls – currently estimated to cost retailers £800m a year. The technology removes physical limitations on the amount of surveillance footage an organisation can save. Delivering a powerful, cloud-based storage and retrieval platform, Ocucon provides the facility to store, analyse and retrieve unlimited amounts of video surveillance footage from within the Ocucon portal.

AAEON, an industry renowned provider of embedded AI Edge solutions, announces the PICO-WHU4, the latest compact board designed for embedded artificial intelligence, and edge computing. Built on the PICO-ITX form factor and powered by 8th Generation Intel Core Processors, the PICO-WHU4 is a powerful and compact solution for a wide range of applications. The PICO-WHU4 is built to offer high performance computing in a compact size. It features the 8th Generation Intel Core i3/i5/i7 and Celeron processors (formerly Whiskey Lake) combined with support for up to 16 GB of DDR4 RAM. This setup provides an impressive level of computing performance on the compact PICO-ITX form factor, allowing the PICO-WHU4 to power many AI and edge computing applications. Tough and reliable system With a wide operating temperature range from 0°C to 60°C, the PICO-WHU4 is a tough and reliable system for any working condition. Built to meet the ever-growing demands for embedded AI and Edge Computing, the PICO-WHU4 offers an I/O configuration designed to integrate with almost any embedded application. Manufacturer Support from AAEON can also custom configure the PICO-WHU4 to suit customer projects The PICO-WHU4 features two Ethernet ports, two HDMI ports, and four USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports. The board also features two COM headers, supporting RS-232/422/485 serial port operation. The PICO-WHU4 is also easy to expand, with an M.2 slot providing support for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, and a mSATA/mPCIe slot which can support expansions such as the AI Core X with Intel Movidius Myriad X. Complete system solution Manufacturer Support from AAEON can also custom configure the PICO-WHU4 to suit customer projects, helping to reduce development time and time-to-market. The PICO-WHU4 is also available as a turn-key solution, the PICO-WHU4-SEMI compact embedded system. With a compact chassis, the PICO-WHU4-SEMI is built to provide customers a complete system solution which is easy to setup and deploy. “The PICO-WHU4 is a powerful solution that’s built for the edge,” said Kevin Chiu, Head of AAEON’s Embedded Computing Division. “With compact size and Intel Core processors, the PICO-WHU4 is the perfect solution for vertical markets including Smart Retail applications and Smart City infrastructure.”

Johnson Controls has added to its successful Illustra Pro camera family with the Illustra Pro Gen3 Bullet, featuring new Smart Wide Dynamic Range that optimises video quality while minimising configuration time. Available with standard or telephoto lens and in megapixel resolutions of 3MP and 4K, the Pro Gen3 Bullet provides customers with a selection of video images to match their operational requirements and is ideal for a wide variety of deployments in both medium and large-sized facilities. Smart Wide Dynamic Range available in the Pro Gen3 Bullet reduces configuration time while greatly improving the quality of the video stream in varying lighting environments. By effectively reading the scene, the Bullet can adjust contrasting and overall scene balance without operator intervention. Setup and management costs Setup times are also reduced with the addition of configuration profiles, such as retail, gaming and indoor/outdoor scenes, where camera settings are automatically adjusted based on the environment, with a simple click of a button. The Pro Gen3 Bullet automatically adjusts settings to the desired mount for ceiling or wall for additional labor savings The Pro Gen3 Bullet also automatically adjusts settings to the desired mount for ceiling or wall for additional labor savings. “The smart technology embedded in our latest generation of Illustra Pro cameras automates picture tuning and ensures that what you see is always dynamically optimised even in changing scenes and lighting conditions. We are aiming to reduce operator setup and management costs while always delivering a perfectly configured picture,” said Ric Wilton, Director of Product Management for Illustra. “Adding intelligent, automated capabilities to our solutions is core to our product design and the Illustra portfolio.” Video Intelligence Analytics Building off the previous generation of cameras, the Bullet improves on important features such as Wide Dynamic Range, Illustra IntelliZip bandwidth management, effective failover redundancy, cybersecurity and Video Intelligence Analytics. Users can offload analytic streaming from network video recorders to the edge on Illustra cameras, saving time and resources. This feature, Video Intelligence Analytics, provides real-time, user-customisable event alarms that allow for quick reaction to incidents. By gathering transformative data instantly, users can better allocate human resources elsewhere. As part of the Tyco Cyber Protection Product Security Program, the new generation of Illustra Pro cameras will also have enhanced safeguards against cyber attacks. Cyber-threat resilience With cyber-threat resilience in mind, the solution includes “secure boot” which prompts the installer to change passwords upon installation. Additional safeguard controls include an enhanced security mode, which forces the use of complex, non-default passwords and encrypted communications. The Pro Gen3 Bullet is now available for order in both 3MP and 8MP form factors, with additional options coming soon.

Genetec Inc., globally renowned technology provider of unified security, public safety, operations, and business intelligence solutions has announced Security Center Transaction Finder, a POS (Point of Sale) integration tool with exception-based reporting capabilities, designed to help retailers speed up their investigations. The new POS tool with exception-based analytics embedded in security platform helps retailers reduce shrink by quickly detecting suspicious transactions and correlating events with surveillance video. Security Center Transaction Finder Embedded in the security system, Security Center Transaction Finder correlates POS data with corresponding video, with the ability to bring in additional sources such as analytics as an added feature. It eliminates the need to jump between different platforms, and helps investigators filter through large volumes of transactions to quickly detect suspicious activities that might warrant further investigation. Retail shrink is increasing, and theft tactics are becoming more complex, strategic and internal Retail shrink is increasing, and theft tactics are becoming more complex, strategic and internal. According to the National Retail Federation (NRF) 2019 national retail security survey, theft, fraud, and losses from other retail “shrink” continues to rise (totaling US$ 50.6 billion in 2018, up from $46.8 billion the year before). To identify theft trends and combat loss, retailers are increasingly turning to technology to put in place effective ways to work smarter and automate their processes to reduce losses and preserve valuable margin.  Theft and financial fraud detection “Working with a variety of tools and applications to reduce retail loss is a critical aspect of any retail investigator’s job. However, the enormous volume of POS transactions to review, combined with the amount of time it takes to manually find the security video associated with potentially fraudulent activity makes this a daunting task. With Transaction Finder, we solve that problem by using a single tool that makes it easy to detect theft trends, identify suspicious transactions and locate video of interest,” explains Rob Borsch, Practice Leader – Retail and Banking at Genetec, Inc. Scanning POS database Using the Transaction Finder task in Security Center, investigators simply enter relevant search criteria like date and time, employee name, SKUs involved in the transaction, void transactions, or whether motion was detected on the customer side of the register, etc. Transaction Finder will scan the POS database for activities that meet the selected criteria along with the associated video and the transaction details. Using customisable dashboards, investigators can quickly identify suspicious transactions, immediately review the associated video for more context, and flag transactions for further investigation.

With the recent news headlines about store closures and the collapse of well-known chains, alongside clear adjustments in business strategy amongst established high street favourites, there is no denying that the UK retail industry is under huge pressure. A recent report suggests growing issues are leading some retailers to increase risk-taking in the supply chain. But here, Steve Bumphrey, Traka UK Sales Director, looks at ways to help retailers embrace the storm, including paying attention to security, management processes and efficient customer focus. Challenges plaguing retail industry It’s been an awful year to date for UK retail if you believe the cacophony of negative headlines about the health of the UK economy and the confidence levels of the UK consumer. The sector is facing huge challenges in dealing with the evolution in on-line and smart mobile retailing The sector is undoubtedly facing huge challenges in dealing with the evolution in on-line and smart mobile retailing. Further concerns include an unwillingness of policymakers to address the changing retail environment and how business rates and general business taxation and regulation is making a difficult situation worse. Supply Chain Risk Report According to the latest Global Supply Chain Risk Report, published by Cranfield School of Management and Dan & Badstreet, those under pressure, are now facing increased exposure to risk if they are forced to cut costs in their supply chain. The report cites data for the retail sector that shows increased levels of risk-taking since Q4 2018, with retailers reporting high levels of dependency on suppliers and indicating a propensity to off-shore to low-cost, high-risk countries where suppliers are more likely to be financially unstable. In-store technology revolution The underlying evolution of technology taking hold of the retail industry and consequential changing consumer behaviour is what is really forcing the industry to step up and act. This is not only in the shift to online and smart mobile purchases, but also with the increased use of technology in store. Self-scanning and checkouts In a bid to enhance the physical shop experience, especially in supermarket outlets across the UK, retailers are increasingly giving customers autonomy with self-scanners and checkouts and need to be able to trust them to ensure an honest transaction. And for the shoppers, this dependency on technology and not human interaction to complete a shop means scanners must be instantly available and ready for use. Many different underlying competing challenges impact the retail industry Compensators At the recent British Retail Consortium’s ‘Charting the Future’ conference, looking at retail crime and security, Dr Emmeline Taylor, a criminologist at the City University of London identified in self -service shops, several new types of ‘offenders’ such as so-called ‘compensators’ including the atypical ‘frustrated consumer’ who, “fully intended to pay but were unable to scan an item properly”, adding to the security challenge. There are clearly many different underlying competing challenges impacting the retail industry. Arguably, the increase in technology and autonomous shopping, where less staff are present (or staff cuts planned) throws up more vulnerabilities, such as the opportunity for store theft. Use of body cameras Staff needs emerging technology such as body cameras to act as a deterrent to crime and keep employees safe Furthermore, staff may need greater use of emerging technology such as body cameras to act as a deterrent to crime and help keep employees safe. In essence, prevention is better than cure, and it’s certainly cheaper. Whether combating crime physically or online, or looking to find ways to counter the high street trends, working together, sharing information and taking a more holistic approach will help the development of a shared language between retailers. Retail banking It is also here where common approaches can help to deliver on efficiencies, in time, resource and budget that can serve to operate right through the supply chain, and minimise, or even negate the need to take any risks. It can even serve to enhance the customer experience, increasing confidence in the shopping environment. Of course, when discussing the high street, it is not just the department stores and chains that are feeling the impact. Well known banks are also having to redefine their priorities and role on the high street, with customers (especially younger generations) demanding a more efficient service than ever before. Well known banks are also having to redefine their priorities and role on the high street Asset protection Leading the way is Nationwide, globally renowned building society, which prides itself on being one of the largest savings providers and mortgages provider in the UK, promoting itself as running purely for the benefit of its customers, or ‘members.’ Richard Newland, Director of Branch & Workplace Transformation at Nationwide said, “Even more than getting a good ‘deal’ from a building society, the quality of our welcome, or our renowned level of service, we make sure our members feel safe with us, enough to trust us with their greatest assets. We are doing everything we can to evolve our business and focus our efforts on providing the best and most secure services that people value.” Key management systems Traka has supported Nationwide with the introduction of dedicated key management systems So committed to its branch network, it has pledged to its 15 million members that every town and city with a Nationwide branch, will still have one for at least the next two years. A bold statement in today’s climate. Traka has supported Nationwide with the introduction of dedicated key management systems, moving its branch network into a more digital system. Keys no longer need to leave site and the audit trail capability has helped to remove the manual paper recording, allowing status of keys to be established instantly, at any time. Changes in retail market This example, together with Traka’s portfolio of high street brands and globally renowned department stores that cannot be named for security reasons, demonstrates the need for retailers to embrace the need for change, both from a product offering and operational running perspective to achieve aspirations of resonating with customers. They also prove the opportunities for success, in an unquestionable difficult market environment. If retailers can listen to customers and respond accordingly, taking into consideration staff safety and security, alongside an ability to respond quickly to personalised enquiries and expectations. This way, perhaps, the current environment can be seen as an opportunity to innovate and embrace technology to form the high street of the future.

It's no secret that one of the next market segments to see exceptional growth in the United States is somewhat non-traditional: cannabis. The global cannabis market is projected to reach $60 billion by 2024, according to Ameri Research, fueled by the increasing legalisation and decriminalisation across much of the United States. It is estimated that 22 million pounds of marijuana are grown each year in the United States, with 80 percent coming from California, Tennessee, Kentucky, Hawaii and Washington, according to Mother Jones. Unlike other products, this commodity is valuable from the moment the seeds go in the ground to the exchanging of money for end-user products - and at every point in between. Within large greenhouses, 360-degree cameras that show a wide field of view are essential for cannabis protection From seedlings to selling, securing every point within the supply chain is vital to the assets being distributed, and companies are now realising how lucrative this endeavour can be. Critical to the success of the industry is keeping the merchandise secure and the workers safe. In this article, we explore each part of the supply chain within the cannabis market and address ways of implementing robust security measures.  Plants, fields and greenhouses This is one industry where money actually grows on trees! When cannabis crops are planted either in greenhouses or in fields, security becomes critical, since the plants themselves are worth a significant amount of money. A single truckload can be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars, so securing the load is crucial to the process Producers don't want plants stolen – especially high-end varieties that garner a bigger profit when harvested and sold – and the size of the plants make theft a greater possibility. Video surveillance becomes vital at this point and can be used in a variety of ways. Within large greenhouses, single cameras that can cover a wide expanse of space, such as cameras that offer 360-degree views, are essential and can provide more coverage with less investment overall than traditional narrow field-of-view cameras. Advanced technology, such as unmanned aerial vehicles (or drones), are also being used in open fields in an effort to protect these plants.  Comprehensive video surveillance becomes the main tool for thwarting cannabis theft and addressing incidents as they arise Transportation and protection Once the plants are mature enough to be harvested, they must be transported to a production facility where they are either dried or cured based on the needs of the grower, as well as processed and transformed into edible products to be sold at retail locations. There are already a range of companies that specialise in keeping these crop yields safe while they are transported: think Brinks armoured transportation used for cash, but for cannabis. A single truckload can be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars – if not more – so securing the load is crucial to the process. Losing one of these loads can lead to large-scale losses for a producer. Surveillance equipment that can withstand sanitation standards and power-washing is paramount for effective protection After being transported, cannabis must be processed. In these environments, where strict handling processes are in place, surveillance equipment that can withstand sanitation standards and power-washing is paramount. This requires camera enclosures that are rated for resistance to high-pressure water jets, dust and vandalism/tampering. Since edible processing requires stringent regulations be followed, it becomes more critical for security managers to identify solutions that carry the NSF Mark, making them compliant with standards set forth for commercial food equipment in North America, or the HCV EU, the equivalent in Europe.  Many of these locations handle and store large amounts of cash since customers have to pay with cash Retail protection As the final products come out of processing and go into storefronts to be sold by retailers in States that have recreational or medical facilities, there's another level of security that must be in place to protect these transactions. But careful considerations must be made. Traditional security tags cannot generally be used because of the small size of many of the end products, making it more difficult to track with tracking devices.Traditional security tags cannot generally be used because of the small size of many of the end products In this instance, comprehensive video surveillance becomes the main tool for thwarting theft and addressing incidents as they arise. In these locations, a loss prevention or security officer has to be an integral part of the team. Another consideration is the careful screening of the potential employees.  Since the federal government doesn't recognise cannabis producers and retailers, banks that are federally insured through the FDIC don't accept money from these establishments, meaning that many of these locations handle and store large amounts of cash since customers have to pay with cash. There must be security measures in place for these kinds of transactions, including the ability for video surveillance to be played back instantaneously in the event of an incident at a cash register. The cannabis market comes with a variety of challenges at each and every step of the operation, from growing to transport to production and sales. Video surveillance and business intelligence solutions are ideal for these applications, and as the market grows, more and more security companies will look to cater to the market. 

The term “smart city” gets thrown around a lot nowadays, but as different technologies that strive to be defined in this way are adopted by different countries globally, the meaning of this phrase gets lost in translation. The simplest way to define a “smart city” is that it is an urban area that uses different types of data collecting sensors to manage assets and resources efficiently. One of the most obvious types of “data collecting sensor” is the video camera, whether that camera is part of a city’s existing CCTV infrastructure, a camera in a shopping centre or even a police car’s dash camera. The information gathered by video cameras can be used with two purposes in mind, firstly: making people’s lives more efficient, for example by managing traffic, and secondly (and arguably more importantly): making people’s lives safer. Live streaming video all the time, everywhere In the smart and safe city, traditional record-only video cameras are of limited use. Yes, they can be used to collect video which can be used for evidence after a crime has taken place, but there is no way that this technology could help divert cars away from an accident to avoid traffic building up, or prevent a crime from taking place in the first place. However, streaming live video from a camera that isn’t connected to an infrastructure via costly fibre optic cabling has proven challenging for security professionals, law enforcement and city planners alike. This is because it isn’t viable to transmit video reliably over cellular networks, in contrast to simply receiving it. Video transmission challenges Transmitting video normally results in freezing and buffering issues which can hinder efforts to fight crime and enable flow within a city, as these services require real-time, zero latency video without delays. Therefore, special technology is required that copes with poor and varying bandwidths to allow a real-time view of any scene where cameras are present to support immediate decision making and smart city processes. The information gatheredby video cameras can beused to make people’s lives more efficient, and to make people’s lives safer There are many approaches to transmitting video over cellular. We’ve developed a specialist codec (encoding and decoding algorithm) that can provide secure and reliable video over ultra-low bandwidths and can therefore cope when networks become constrained. Another technique, which is particularly useful if streaming video from police body worn cameras or dash cams that move around, is to create a local wireless “bubble” at the scene, using Wi-Fi or mesh radio systems to provide local high-bandwidth communications that can communicate with a central location via cellular or even satellite communications. Enhanced city surveillance Live video streaming within the smart and safe city’s infrastructure means that video’s capabilities can go beyond simple evidence recording and evolve into a tool that allows operations teams to monitor and remediate against incidents as they are happening. This can be taken one step further with the deployment of facial recognition via live streaming video. Facial recognition technology can be added on to any video surveillance camera that is recording at a high enough quality to identify faces. The technology works by capturing video, streaming the live video back to a control centre and matching faces against any watch lists that the control centre owns. Importantly, the data of people who aren’t on watch lists is not stored by the technology. Identifying known criminals This technology can work to make the city safer in a number of ways. For example, facial recognition could spot a known drug dealer in a city centre where they weren’t supposed to be, or facial recognition could identify if a group of known terror suspects were visiting the same location at the same time, and this would send an alert to the police. Facial recognition technology captures and streams live back to a control centre, matching faces against any watch lists that the control centre owns In an ideal world where the police had an automated, electronic workflow, the police officer nearest to the location of the incident would be identified by GPS and would be told by the control room where to go and what to do. Most police forces aren’t quite at this technological level yet, and would probably rely on communicating via radio in order to send the nearest response team to the scene. As well as this, shopping centres could create a database from analogue records of known shoplifters to identify criminals as soon as they entered the building. This would be even more effective if run co-operatively between all shopping centres and local businesses in an area, and would not only catch any known shoplifters acting suspiciously, but would act as a deterrent from shoplifting in the first place. Live streaming for police As mentioned above, live streaming video from CCTV cameras can help the police fight crime more proactively rather than reactively. This can be enhanced even further if combined with live streaming video from police car dash cams and police body worn cameras. If video was streamed from all of these sources to a central HQ, such as a police operations centre, the force would be able to have full situational awareness throughout an incident. This would mean that, if need be, officers could be advised on the best course of action, and additional police or other emergency services could be deployed instantly if needed. Incorporated with facial recognition, this would also mean that police could instantly identify if they were dealing with known criminals or terrorists. Whilst they would still have to confirm the identity of the person with questioning or by checking their identification, this is still more streamlined than describing what a person looks like over a radio and then ops trying to manually identify if the person is on a watch list. The smart, safe city is possible today – for one, if live video streaming capabilities are deployed they can enable new levels of flow in the city. With the addition of facial recognition, cities will be safer than ever before and law enforcement and security teams will be able to proactively stop crime before it happens by deterring criminal activity from taking place at all.

The Middle East security market provides a healthy opportunity for manufacturers who can capitalise on the region’s key verticals. Intersec’s 20th edition show focused more on solutions than on products, including solutions for the growing retail sector and an infrastructure market requiring ruggedised equipment to stand up to harsh environments. Intersec hosted security, safety and fire protection exhibitors from over fifty countries at Dubai’s spacious International Convention and Exhibition Centre on 21st - 23rd January. For the security market, the show was an opportunity to demonstrate how the industry’s latest technologies can benefit end-users in the UAE and globally. While the show hosted many impressively-sized stands from key security players, these tended to reflect the ongoing shift from a product-centric market to a focus on customer problems and solutions. Rather than filling the floorspace with an abundance of products, many brands chose to showcase how their flagship solutions could function in real-world applications. Retail surveillance delivers ROI Numerous companies opted to highlight their retail solutions – a key vertical for Dubai, which is known for its elaborate city shopping hubs. The Axis Communications stand allowed visitors to experience its network video offerings for the retail sector, including integrations with Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) and Point of Sale (POS) technologies. Solutions on show reflected how security systems are increasingly expected to provide a tangible return on investment: With options for queue management and people counting, Axis video technology can be used to provide business intelligence and improve the customer experience, as well as enhancing safety. IP video manufacturer Vivotek also showcased its latest retail offering, including fisheye cameras with built-in crowd detection and heatmap technology, which can help retail managers analyse customer traffic patterns and highly frequented areas. The panoramic nature of Vivotek’s IP cameras makes them ideal for collecting comprehensive data from retail stores.    MOBOTIX CEO Thomas Lausten demonstrates how the company’s dual modular camera delivers high-quality images in extreme weather conditions IP video in extreme conditions The MOBOTIX stand was also less product-driven than at past shows. Instead, the focus was on how the manufacturer combines intelligent IoT technology and robust materials to address real end-user needs. CEO Thomas Lausten, who joined the company in June 2017, was on-hand to demonstrate how the company’s dual modular camera continues to deliver high-quality images in extreme weather conditions including ice, rain and sand. Rugged solutions were a big theme across the show floor. This is unsurprising given Intersec’s location in Dubai – the Middle East provides ample opportunity for the security market to capitalise on large outdoor projects, including the oil and gas industry. Video surveillance manufacturer Videotec showcased its latest HD PTZ cameras built to withstand harsh outdoor environments. The stand hosted an immersive ‘Experience Centre’, where the company’s flagship PTZ cameras moved in sync to a rolling video, demonstrating their use in vertical markets including oil and gas, marine surveillance, and critical infrastructure. Video surveillance manufacturer Videotec showcased its latest HD PTZ cameras built to withstand harsh outdoor environments MENA security market requirements Storage provider Promise Technology showcased its latest portfolio of surveillance solutions, including a cloud-based infrastructure optimised for growing IP video requirements. The manufacturer also introduced its new Vess A700 network video recorder series. This latest NVR offering specifically targets medium- to large-scale applications such as banking and industry. Such a solution is ideal for the growing Dubai market, where strict legislation requires a video retention time of 180 days. Intersec is set to return to Dubai from 20th - 22nd January 2019. Organisers expect over 1,300 exhibitors from across to globe to come together for a bigger, wider ranging and more innovative show.

Despite the increasing popularity of body-worn cameras, the technology has its detractors. For example, this month Big Brother Watch, a British civil liberties and privacy organisation, is raising new questions about the effectiveness of body-worn cameras. Specifically, Big Brother Watch found that 32 of the 45 police forces that have adopted body-cams in the United Kingdom were “unable to say” how often the footage was used in courts. To be clear, being “unable to say” doesn’t equate to the cameras not being useful, and using video as evidence in court is just one of the possible ways the cameras could be beneficial. Even so, point taken. Adoption of the body-worn cameras continues full speed ahead despite lack of empirical evidence of their effectiveness. Studies in the United States and Canada on the effectiveness of the cameras have also often been inconclusive. Big Brother Watch warns: “The value of technology must be proven and not just assumed. It is not enough to tell the public they are essential policing tools if the benefits cannot be shown.” In addition to seeking more data on camera effectiveness, the organisation urges police forces to publish regular “transparency reports” to show how body worn cameras are used in day-to-day policing. Cameras should also have a screen to display when citizens are being recorded. Does video surveillance prevent crime? In some instances, police forces have embraced the cameras on the assertion that the police and/or the public believe they are beneficial. But believing something doesn’t make it true. Body-worn cameras are not the first video systems whose effectiveness has been questioned. There have also been repeated challenges over the years to the effectiveness of video or CCTV cameras in preventing crime. For example, one report in Chicago placed the number of crimes solved by video evidence between the years 2006 and 2013 at 4,500. Not bad, except when you consider there were more than a million incidents during the time period, and surveillance cameras helped solve less than 0.5 percent of them. Looking at it another way, the numbers work out to one crime solved for every five cameras; i.e., the average camera never solves a crime -and then there were the British Home Office studies in 2002 and 2005 that questioned the impact of CCTV cameras on crime. [Jeremy Reddington / Shutterstock.com] British Home Office studies have questioned the impact of CCTV cameras on crime Quantifiable benefits of security products Again, however, solving crime is only one aspect of the benefits of video. There is also a “halo effect” when cameras are installed. That is, the areas where cameras are deployed tend to be more secure, even outside the immediate view of cameras. There is a diffusion of crime prevention benefits to surrounding areas. Questioning the effectiveness of body-worn cameras, CCTV or any other technology, is a necessary exercise. Real answers may be hard to come by, but we shouldn’t be discouraged in making the effort. The technology capabilities of our industry’s products should be able to withstand scrutiny and, in the end, provide verifiable and quantifiable benefits. Public scrutiny of security systems Public scrutiny is an important aspect of technology implementation, especially in the public sector. For private companies, there is another, even more potent force at work that focuses attention on the effectiveness of technology – the bottom line. Spending money on video (or other technologies) is viewed unforgivingly through a lens of return on investment (ROI) by managers and accountants of customer companies. Fortunately, in this environment, video systems more than justify their existence every day. It only takes avoidance of a single multi-million-dollar personal injury lawsuit to cost-justify a whole system of video cameras. The impact of video to deter shoplifting or other crimes, and the resulting extra value to an enterprise, is sufficiently demonstrated every day. We as an industry should welcome any questions about the effectiveness of our products. Their value can speak for itself, and can stand up to any questioning or research projects. If it doesn’t, then we must be willing to let the chips fall where they may.

With global events putting security at the forefront of everyone’s minds, IFSEC International 2017 was a chance for the industry to come out in force. Over 600 exhibitors and numerous seminars kept visitors informed on the latest innovations in security products, solutions and best practice. Despite the challenging heatwave, exhibitors were raring to go for the three mercifully air-conditioned days of the exhibition. SourceSecurity.com took to the show floor to check out what exhibitors were talking about. [Pictured: Nedap Security Management welcomes new Managing Director Fokko van der Zee] Increasing ROI in vertical markets Sustainable partnerships overtake integrations Power in the hands of the customer Adding value in vertical markets The big question for many exhibitors was how to stand out on a show floor (and in a market) dominated by larger commoditised brands. Manufacturers rose to the challenge by deliberately positioning themselves as solutions providers within specific vertical markets, rather than trying to compete on low cost products. For Vivotek, the Taiwanese IP surveillance specialists, the emphasis was on adding value in particular markets such as transport and retail. Alongside a lineup of 180° and 360° solutions, the manufacturer debuted its 12-megapixel fisheye camera, FE9391-EV, whose 360° lens technology makes it ideal for crowd detection and loitering-time analysis in the retail sector, in addition to traditional security applications. Vivotek’s vertical market focus was further reinforced by demonstrations of its integrations with SeeTec and Wavestore. This collaboration forms part of the company’s Solution Integration Alliance programme, which aims to create better end-user solutions through integration of Vivotek products with partner technologies. Collaborating on technology and customer support This was a theme which resonated across the show floor. The Promise Technology stand firmly emphasised collaboration, with presentations from the storage provider’s IP camera partners including IronYun and Axis Communications. Particular importance was given to education and training for partners and end users to get the most out of integrated solutions. The emphasis for Promise Technology was on education and training for partners and end users Similarly, for Nedap Security Management, the increasing demand for connected systems means that open platform solutions are essential to excel within the security industry. As well as welcoming new Managing Director Fokko van der Zee, Nedap used its presence at the show to inform visitors about new and ongoing partnerships with key players in the industry. These partnerships include ASSA ABLOY, Touchless Biometric Systems and Milestone Systems. According to Jeroen Harmsen, Nedap’s Director of Product Management, the ability to provide collaborative solutions is becoming a key differentiator in the security sector and beyond. While many companies pursue product integrations, what makes sustainable partnerships stand out is ongoing cooperation on issues such as customer support. This, according to Harmsen, is why the deep integration of Milestone’s XProtect VMS and Nedap’s AEOS access control system has been so successful. Making customers’ lives easier This insistence on customer service as a differentiating factor also extended to video surveillance manufacturers. However, not all exhibitors were aiming to achieve this through increased integration. Cisco Meraki, whose cloud-managed video system is relatively new to the security market, deliberately steers clear of the market trend for integration in favour of the ‘Apple’ approach, aiming to provide a comprehensive solution on one easy-to-use platform. The architecture is intended to make customers’ lives easier by removing the NVR from the equation - video is stored on the edge and managed via the cloud, eliminating the ongoing costs and maintenance associated with traditional hardware solutions. Eagle Eye Networks president Ken Francis was also hoping to highlight the benefits of customer-friendly cloud surveillance at the show. The acquisition of Panasonic's Cameramanager has allowed Eagle Eye Networks to cater to smaller businesses with cameras connected directly to the internet. The company’s cloud storage solution also includes Remote Power Cycling via an integrated PoE switch, allowing users to remotely repower cameras themselves with no training or expertise. Crucial to Eagle Eye Networks' customer-friendly outlook is the possession of its own local data centres worldwide, reducing cloud storage costs and allowing customers to choose where their video is stored. Making your security products stand out on a crowded show floor is no easy task, but IFSEC 2017 saw plenty of innovation from video surveillance, access control and intrusion providers alike. As competition increases, added value solutions, collaboration and ease-of-use are sure to help manufacturers make a splash at future shows!  

Protecting assets and people has always been a top priority for Kirkland’s, a global home décor retailer. With over 400 stores in 37 states, Kirkland’s is a go-to spot for a broad selection of distinctive merchandise: art, mirrors, candles, lamps, frames, accent rugs, furniture and more. When they evaluated their security solutions in 2016, they determined they needed to upgrade the analog video surveillance systems in use at their existing locations and plan for new stores. Saraya Charlton, Kirkland’s Loss Prevention Investigator, said the analog video surveillance cameras they had in place were acceptable, but they desired cameras with wider coverage and better resolution. The department was also frustrated with the amount of time it took to investigate incidents for loss prevention and personal injury claims. Each time they were called to investigate an incident – vandalism, theft, employee misconduct, a slip and fall, or a cut from broken merchandise – each individual store had to extract the footage from the analog DVR at that location and send it to loss prevention at Kirkland’s headquarters. IP-based video surveillance system Charlton said Kirkland’s sought an IP-based solution that could be accessed remotely Charlton said Kirkland’s sought an IP-based solution that could be accessed remotely, that would make the loss prevention investigation process more efficient, and would provide additional benefits. Management wanted a camera that provided a clear picture, while minimising bandwidth usage and had analytics capability. Working with several systems integrators, Kirkland’s chose to deploy an IP video surveillance solution consisting of Hanwha video surveillance cameras managed by salient enterprise Video Management Software (VMS). Wisenet X series XNV-6011 2MP HD dome cameras The first phase of the security upgrade has included the deployment of 1,800 Hanwha Wisenet X series XNV-6011 2 megapixel HD dome cameras and Wisenet Lite vandal-resistant dome cameras at 200 Kirkland’s locations, as well as the distribution center and the e-commerce building. As new stores are built by this growing retailer, they will also include the Hanwha-Salient security solution. They expect to have a full migration to IP at all locations by 2021. Each Kirkland’s location is outfitted with approximately eight cameras that are positioned to capture the entrance, the sales floor and the back of house operations. Charlton said Hanwha’s cameras provide the most comprehensive view of the store possible. Retail security “The wide-angle capability – as well as the quality of the camera – is really what sold us on Hanwha,” said Charlton, adding “We are getting the best views possible and they are allowing us to see the entire sales floor which is exactly what we wanted and needed.” Hanwha’s Wisenet X series of cameras is a perfect fit for the retail environment. The wide-angle 2.8 mm lens captures a 112-degree horizontal field of view, for a retailer that means doing more with less. Hanwha’s Wisenet X series of cameras is a perfect fit for the retail environment Video analytics, DVR and VMS Charlton said the Hanwha cameras are particularly useful at store entrances because, thanks to the WDR feature, video images are not affected by the bright sunlight that often shines through the windows and they can still see faces clearly. And because many of Hanwha’s cameras offer license free analytics, Kirkland’s will begin exploring that capability in the future to gain information on people counting, heat mapping and dwell time. The Hanwha-Salient solution has improved Kirkland’s loss prevention investigation efficiency since the team is able to pull recorded video from any camera via the Salient VMS rather than wait for information to be extracted from an analog DVR. They also appreciate being able to use Hanwha’s Device Manager to troubleshoot and resolve any camera issues remotely first rather than unnecessarily sending out a service technician. WiseStream II compression technology In addition to offering quality images, improved field of view and more efficient operations, the Hanwha solution has also helped Kirkland’s conserve valuable bandwidth with Hanwha WiseStream II compression technology, said Charlton. WiseStream II dynamically controls encoding, balancing quality and compression according to movement of the image. Combined with H.265 compression, bandwidth efficiency can be improved by up to 75 percent compared to current H.264 technology. “We share our video surveillance and security bandwidth with our Point of Sale system and we don’t ever want to take away from the bandwidth of POS transactions or impact the speed at which they go through,” said Charlton. “Hanwha’s Wisestream compression technology fits our business model and along with Salient helps preserve and efficiently manage bandwidth. It’s really helpful to have a camera that’s smart enough to be able to tweak and regulate itself.”

Critical building management and security systems at one of the most advanced super-high-rise towers, the landmark Wasl Tower in Dubai, are to be integrated with Maxxess eFusion technology. The 302-metre multipurpose tower, which will be operated by the Mandarin Oriental Hospitality Group, incorporates offices, guest rooms, public areas and apartments, and is situated in a pivotal Dubai location. The Wasl Tower is designed with advanced sustainability features including natural shading and cooling, adaptive lighting, one of the world’s tallest natural ceramic facades, and a vertical boulevard. eFusion was selected for the project because of the flexibility it allows, enabling rapid integration, off-the-shelf, with a wide choice of security, safety and business-critical technologies. With a modular, building block approach, eFusion provides an umbrella management system and drives service efficiency by removing the need for operators to continually switch between systems. Visitor management system By keeping it simple and integrating with the widest choice of technologies, Maxxess removes the complexity A key use of the technology will be to integrate back-of-house operations at the Wasl guest apartments with front-of-house systems, for maximum ease of use and operational efficiency using the Maxxess unified platform. This eFusion solution comprises a 900-plus reader ASSA ABLOY VingCard access control system, a 1700 camera Hanwha surveillance system, and advanced key management with Deister ProxSafe, and it will use the BACnet protocol to integrate the building management system (BMS). The Tower will also benefit from Maxxess VisitorPoint visitor management system, a Zenitel intelligent communication system and disabled call-to-assist alarms. The VisitorPoint integration will improve the guest and resident experience, reduce administration and front-desk queuing, and ensure smooth running of functions from visitor and contractor management to collections and deliveries, and security. Streamline security, safety and facilities management “The challenge with projects of this scale is to find a simple, straightforward platform that communicates with everything and works with all the systems involved,” says Lee Copland, Managing Director EMEA, Maxxess. “By keeping it simple, and integrating with the widest choice of technologies, Maxxess removes the complexity.” The Wasl Tower project is the latest of a growing number of mixed-use developments, including hotels, retail, office and residential complexes to use eFusion to streamline security, safety and facilities management. Last year Maxxess won an Intersec Award for its major eFusion implementation at Bluewaters Island.

Theft from stock rooms and shop floors is a persistent problem for retailers. With around €900 million lost annually to thieves in Belgium alone, upscale fashion boutique Patio sought an easy, low-cost deterrent. Code Handle locks fitted on key doors were the answer. A location on Leuven’s most exclusive shopping street did not insulate Patio from retail theft. Shoplifting is a growing problem in many European countries, and thefts had also proliferated at Patio. Thieves were using the store’s toilet to remove clothing tags. Some even went upstairs to Patio’s offices and stole valuable items. Access control system Code Handle proved an ideal solution for us to protect non-public spaces from the public" During a store renovation, manager Jeff Van den Bergh decided Patio’s offices and customer toilet needed proper security. Shoppers and visitors should not enjoy free, casual access to these sensitive rooms. However, he did not want staff wasting their time tracking physical keys when they could be helping customers. An expensive access control system was also ruled out. Door hardware had to look clean and contemporary, to meet the style-conscious standards of Patio’s interior. The store’s security contractor recommended Code Handle, which adds electronic PIN locking to doors without wires or an expensive access system. “Code Handle proved an ideal solution for us to protect non-public spaces from the public,” says Jeff Van den Bergh, Patio’s Store Manager. Door security Door security is operated by a discreet PIN-pad built into a brushed-chrome handle. Two standard batteries slot inside each Code Handle to power the digital security. These typically last for 30,000 lock/unlock cycles. "The design fits well within the store,” adds Mr Van den Bergh. Now, Patio customers still use the toilet — but not unsolicited. An employee unlocks the door for them without a key or pass. The door to Patio’s offices is closed to everyone, except staff who unlock it with a personal PIN. Code Handle comes with one Master PIN; the store manager issues up to 9 additional 4–6-digit PINs. When an employee leaves Patio, it’s simple to delete their PIN. For further information visit https://campaigns.assaabloyopeningsolutions.eu/codehandle

Every day, the 13 hagebaumarkt stores serve thousands of customers and process tens of thousands of products. The Schneider Group, based in Grabenstätt/Erlstätt, has the mammoth task of providing security for its customers and employees as well as monitoring and protecting its DIY stores against theft on a daily basis. It was therefore a top priority that the Group update its security and surveillance system as part of its digitalisation strategy. "Introducing digital solutions into our locations is one of our biggest challenges," explains Martin Wohlmayer, Head of IT and Organisation at Jos. Schneider GmbH. Security and monitoring system "We're well on our way to bringing our retail and wholesale stores into a digitalised future, focusing exclusively on reliable, future-proof solutions that are cyber-safe and 100% GDPR-compliant," says Wohlmayer. This was the starting point going into initial consultations with IT service provider CN H&D GmbH, in which they discussed a new security and monitoring system for hagebaumarkt stores. It became clear that the existing system would need to be replaced with a solution that included MOBOTIX cameras It quickly became clear that the existing system would need to be replaced with a solution that included MOBOTIX cameras. "We were completely won over by the 'Made in Germany' MOBOTIX cameras and solutions. This was thanks to their decentralised solution, the outstanding quality of both the hardware and software, the flexibility of the system, their compliance with the GDPR and the high level of cyber security," says Wohlmayer. Secure outdoor facilities "Our forward-looking approach involves checking all our current investments to see whether the new systems are flexible, open, expandable and secure with regard to future challenges. It quickly became clear that a MOBOTIX system would be the best way to meet our requirements," explains Matthias Ziegleder, Managing Director of CN H&D GmbH. The focus of the ongoing project in Traunstein is on installing MOBOTIX systems in the ninth hagebaumarkt store in the Schneider Group. There are currently 134 MOBOTIX cameras already in use, all of which are integrated into the MxManagementCenter. A total of 19 MOBOTIX cameras have been installed in Traunstein, as well as the MxThinClient for communicating with customers. This system has been connected to the central MxManagementCenter. Nine cameras have been installed to monitor and secure outdoor facilities, including parking lots. Specialised outdoor cameras The specialised outdoor cameras provide crystal clear images day or night throughout the year These specialised outdoor cameras provide crystal clear images day or night throughout the year, meaning that any incidents in the hagebaumarkt parking lots can easily be traced. Inside the store, ten MOBOTIX cameras monitor the sales floor. This helps determine the cause of any discrepancies in stock levels, which are usually due to theft. The MxManagementCenter (MxMC) is MOBOTIX's powerful, intuitive video management system for Windows and MacOS and is installed on a total of five computers in the store with different user profiles and access rights. The system is fully GDPR-compliant, with each user only having access to the video footage assigned to their profile. The data is remotely secured on the MOBOTIX cameras, providing highly effective protection against even the most complex and sophisticated cyber attacks. PoE-powered network device The MxThinClient completes the solution in the Schneider Group's hagebaumarkt stores. The PoE-powered network device is the intelligent, easy-to-use MOBOTIX solution for viewing the live feed from the cameras on a monitor or TV equipped with an HDMI port. This makes it possible to display content such as welcome messages, inform customers that surveillance equipment is being used in the store and show them the current products on offer in store. "We plan to equip the remaining four hagebaumarkt stores with the MOBOTIX solution and are working to develop and implement a mobile solution for targeted surveillance in known 'theft hotspots.' These cameras will be connected to their own company-wide MOBOTIX Wi-Fi network and can be moved at any time to monitor specific hotspots in the store," says Ziegleder, explaining the plans for the project. Interface to POS system "The support provided by CN H&D GmbH throughout the whole design and installation process, including follow-up support and training, has been excellent. The MOBOTIX system ensures security for us and our customers, and we'll gradually be starting to implement the other capabilities offered by the system. We've already set up the interface to the POS system," says Matthias Ziegleder. This means that any POS discrepancies can be prevented or immediately resolved in the hagebaumarkt store This means that any POS discrepancies can be prevented or immediately resolved in the hagebaumarkt store. A customer count and footfall analysis will also be integrated to further optimise customer service and customer satisfaction - not least through coordinated staff scheduling. Intelligent solutions Christian Heller, Sales Director of MOBOTIX DACH, explains: "Our solutions are used in many industries, and retail is an important market for us. Together with our technology partners, we have developed bespoke and intelligent solutions specifically for the retail and wholesale sector that make work easier and more secure." "We're pleased that the Schneider Group is using our solutions in all 13 of its hagebaumarkt stores in Germany and Austria to improve the security of its stores and to benefit its customers and employees."

Nedap announces that luxury brand Essentiel Antwerp signed up for a European deployment of !D Cloud, Nedap’s inventory visibility platform. Implementing RFID technology throughout Essentiel’s stores worldwide enables the brand to optimise inventory accuracy in order to ensure on-shelf product availability. The roll-out will start first semester 2020 when the first source tagged items hit the stores, and will be completed within two months. Cloud-based RFID In order to ensure a fast and smooth roll-out process, Essentiel Antwerp will be using Nedap’s self-deployment methodology. This methodology enables Essentiel to deploy at a fast pace, using existing in-house training and roll out infrastructure. We got in touch with Nedap in our quest for a proven cloud-based solution that was easy to deploy on a global scale" Peter Bruggeman, CFO at Essentiel Antwerp comments: “We knew cloud-based RFID was our way to go, after thorough research during the last two years and experience with systems hosted locally. We got in touch with Nedap in our quest for a proven cloud-based solution that was easy to deploy on a global scale. Using Nedap’s self-deployment methodology we are able to move at the fastest possible pace during our global expansion.” Software-as-a-service Nedap’s !D Cloud software suite is a Software-as-a-Service solution specifically developed for retail RFID applications. It offers retailers the quickest route to implement RFID and improve their in-store inventory accuracy to over 98%. Essentiel Antwerp integrates !D Cloud with Microsoft Dynamics Navision such that realtime insights into inventory levels and the exact location of each item also enables the successful introduction of omnichannel services. “Essentiel Antwerp already had extensive knowledge about the value and use cases of RFID technology and why this is key for future-proof retailing”, says Bruno Bakker, Business Developer RFID at Nedap Retail Benelux. “Realtime inventory visibility through RFID enables Essentiel Antwerp to develop omnichannel services or to easily share inventory information between stores. This helps Essentiel always have the right product available and serve their customers in the best possible way.”

Comelit 4 camera wireless CCTV system has been selected on site at the iconic, Grade II listed Chichester Cathedral, to protect the retail area and provide 24x7 high-quality monitoring capability and extra peace of mind for staff. Wireless CCTV surveillance This magnificent Cathedral has stood at the centre of Chichester for over 900 years. With unique architecture from each century of its life, this Cathedral is both ancient and modern, where original medieval features sit alongside world famous contemporary artworks. Any works needed to consider the sensitivities of working in such a historic building. A representative from Chichester Cathedral commented, “When it came to upgrading CCTV for the retail area, we contacted Envisage Technology Ltd who recommended Comelit’s 4 camera wireless CCTV system. It has proven to be the perfect solution, with the system proving simple to install. Staff now have access to monitors by the till points that also act as a significant visual deterrent. The high-quality images available add extra peace of mind.” Four camera wireless CCTV Kevin Brown, Managing Director, Envisage Technology added, “Chichester Cathedral is one of the most prestigious visitor sites in West Sussex. Comelit’s wireless CCTV specification, coming from such a renowned brand, provided the necessary infrastructure to embrace the need for delicate installation, minimising the need to run cables, and still provide the high-quality footage. We can support the ongoing maintenance process to ensue volunteers, customers and staff are kept safe and secure.” Comelit’s simple four camera wireless CCTV system provides a clear, detailed and well-defined high-resolution image Comelit’s simple four camera wireless CCTV system provides a clear, detailed and well-defined high-resolution image. Installed outside of opening hours to avoid disruption to the retail environment, monitors were positioned directly by the till points, enabling staff to have full visual access of the complete area at all times.  Retail surveillance Tim Edmonds, Comeilt CCTV Manager concluded, “The retail area, established in such a significant Cathedral is a great example of how Comelit’s wireless CCTV system can be used to protect any environment.”  “Working with Envisage, the solution was presented as a simple, yet effective option, installed with absolutely no impact on the surrounding building. The result is a powerful visual deterrent and peace of mind that staff in store, and in back offices can keep an eye on operations quickly and easily, on a 24x7 basis.”

The role of video surveillance is expanding, driven by all the new ways that video – and data culled from video – can impact a business. As a growing population of video cameras expands into new fields of view, we asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the most unusual application of surveillance cameras you have seen recently?

With the advent of online shopping, brick-and-mortar retail businesses are challenged to make transactions more convenient while enhancing the “experience” aspects that differentiate real-life shopping from the simpler route of clicking on a website. Technology is helping retailers create that differentiation, including technologies such as video systems, deep learning analytics and point-of-sale (POS) integrations that have evolved from innovation in the physical security market. For more insights, we asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What new security industry technologies are having an impact on the retail market?

Does seeing video cameras at a location make you feel safer or less safe? Do you feel better to know that video surveillance is capturing everything that happens, thus discouraging crime? Or do you think: What kind of neighbourhood (or store) is this that needs a CCTV camera watching everything? Do you feel more secure when the security guard at the hotel elevator asks to see your room key? Do airport screenings ease your mind about getting on an airplane with 100 strangers? The “perception of safety” is a tricky thing, and presence (or absence) of security systems can play a role. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What is the impact of promoting a "perception of safety" when choosing and/or installing physical security systems? How might perception influence the choice of systems (e.g., more overt)?