Convenience Store award-winner, Priyesh Vekaria (above), has recently partnered with Retail AI on his in-store radio station at his One Stop Carlton Convenience store.
And while that might sound like a somewhat ordinary move, the details behind the tech are cutting edge, with movement sensors and more deployed to detect – and act on – potential shoplifters.
As Priyesh explained exclusively to Convenience Store: “If a theft is suspected, the system fades down the in-store audio, triggers a siren and delivers a preventative audio message. This deters the offender and alerts staff, without requiring intervention. Every incident is time stamped, recorded and can be uploaded to the police in three clicks.”
But there are more benefits to the system than just crime prevention, Priyesh says. “It also gives us the ability to deliver professional announcements, promotions and community messages alongside music to create a positive ambience for customers.”
“Customers are enjoying the improved ambience and engagement of the in-store radio, which allows us to highlight promotions and community initiatives.”
Although still fairly new in his store, Priyesh says the system has been reaping rewards already. “Even in these early stages we’re already seeing positive results,” he said. “Customers are enjoying the improved ambience and engagement of the in-store radio, which allows us to highlight promotions and community initiatives.
“On the crime prevention side, we’ve trialled the system in live situations, and it’s successfully deterred theft without staff having to put themselves at risk. It’s clear that offenders don’t like being challenged in real time, and the deterrent effect is immediate.
Priyesh believes the approach he takes to store crime is only one step in tackling the larger issues affecting retailers nationwide. “Retail crime is one of the biggest challenges we face. It’s not just about stock loss, it’s about staff safety, community confidence and the cumulative drain on resources. Each incident chips away at morale and damages the relationship between the store and its neighbourhood.
“As independent retailers, we can’t wait for the Government or enforcement bodies to fix the challenges we face. Retail crime is rising, staff safety is a constant concern and the pressure of poor legislation only adds to the strain.
“Independent retailers like us are being forced to step up with our own solutions because enforcement is stretched and legislation often fails to protect us. Retail AI gives us the tools to fight back in a safe and effective way while continuing to serve our community with confidence,” Priyesh concluded.
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