Toronto-based automated cashierless grocery chain Aisle 24 has implemented new security technology to increase customer safety at its newest store in Ordnance Street, Toronto. The new technology also improves remote store management and enables more accurate remote inventory management.

“These are hyper-urban grocery stores, and—given today’s busy lifestyle—people appreciate having this kind of safe and secure convenience in their neighbourhood or right in the building where they live,” said John Douang, co-founder and CEO of Aisle 24. “By emphasising safety and security while accumulating business intelligence, we’re offering franchise owners the ability to monetise empty space and build a profitable business that places far fewer demands on their time than running a traditional grocery store.”

The security technology for the new store has been provided by Smart Installs and Axis Communications. Axis has provided video surveillance, audio technology and 2N audio/video intercoms, which all stream to an AI-enabled video management system. The two companies have together created an integrated surveillance solution, customisable access control through a mobile app, and analytics designed to reduce shrink, streamline inventory management, analyse point-of-sale data, and optimise each store’s product mix for maximum sell-through.

“As we enter a new era of streamlined retail experiences, investing in state-of-the-art, integrated solutions is key to providing dynamic levels of safety and security, while bolstering overall business intelligence,” said Keith D’sa, Country Manager, Axis Communications. “With the confluence of applications and uses that today’s security technology provides, our goal is to keep customers and assets secure, while also allowing Aisle 24 to leverage data to inform day-to-day and long-term business strategies.”

Entering an Aisle 24 store is completely touchless. Customers can open the app on their smartphone as they approach the Bluetooth-enabled 2N intercom at the store door, which then displays an UNLOCK message and releases the door. Once inside, they can load their cart and then self-checkout at the register kiosk.

“We recommended Axis and 2N technology because they’re built on an open platform, which allows for deep third-party integration,” said Ken Oki, Managing Director for Smart Installs. “That was important for Aisle 24 since it gives them a wider range of options for current and future customisation.”

Currently, Aisle 24 has 16 locations in Ontario and Quebec, with plans to launch at least 40 more stores in Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary, and Halifax by the end of the year. In the future, Aisle 24 plans to continue expanding its 24/7, cashierless grocery stores across Canada, as well as the United States, South America, and parts of Europe and Asia.