Checkpoint Systems is helping retailers view in-store occupancy levels and receive alerts in real time as they battle to limit shopper numbers during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The SmartOccupancy system is also for stores with an occupancy limit or those with serious shoplifting problems.

It helps retail associates or security guards view the number of shoppers in a store in real time, while helping managers deploy staff efficiently, combating risk and deterring theft more effectively.

SmartOccupancy accurately counts the number of people entering and exiting a store, and sends an alert to staff when the store is close to maximum capacity. Managers can set and change threshold levels, and create different zones with distinct entry and exits, as well as concession areas or toilets. This way, it gives a clear view of multiple areas with the overall store capacity included.

Employees and managers can access the information online or via an in-store tablet and react in real time to live occupancy numbers. Visual colour indicators on the tablet enable staff to recognise when a breach in the occupancy threshold is about to occur. Red indicates that the store has met its capacity, yellow highlights that occupancy is almost met, and grey means that no occupancy alerts are required. An additional alert is sent to store staff so they can respond appropriately.

SmartOccupancy uses the most accurate overhead people counting sensor in the New Jersey company’s range – Visiplus 3D, which connects to Checkpoint’s cloud-based software portal Halo. This enables retailers to access reports on occupancy levels in stores across a region and monitor store compliance to maintain or amend the threshold set.

Until now, retailers had to control the occupancy of their stores manually and, in some cases, hire additional staff or security guards. SmartOccupancy helps retailers make decisions based on data trends in the cloud, allowing them to adjust staffing levels and guarding hours.

“As the only vertically integrated provider, we have a comprehensive understanding of the complex challenges retailers face,” said Eric McNaul, vice president at Checkpoint Systems. “We aim to help retailers around the world deliver the best consumer experience possible, while improving their financial performance. Our new SmartOccupancy is a step forward in that direction.”

A division of CCL Industries, Checkpoint Systems is a vertically integrated RF and RFID provider for retail. Through a mix of software, hardware, labels, tags and connected cloud-based products, Checkpoint can optimise retail operations and efficiencies with real-time intuitive data delivered throughout the supply chain and in-store.