Axis Communications aims to redefine local brick-and-mortar store operations and customer engagement, with the launch of its video network solution. The new solution offers HD TV image quality, intelligent video functions and analytic capabilities. These will support retailers in their efforts to remain productive, reduce manpower reliance, gain consumer insights, and ultimately, win back customers from e-commerce players.
The changing retail landscape
Traditional retailers are facing challenging times. Rising rentals, and the tightening labour market, have led to higher operational costs for store owners. Big players, such as New Look, Celio and Carrefour, have exited Singapore as they struggle with slow in-store traffic, and competition against e-commerce players.
As such, in September last year, the Singapore government introduced the Retail Industry Transformation Map, which encourages physical retailers to innovate and adopt emerging technologies to enhance customers experience.
“The consumer shift from brick-and-mortar stores to e-commerce have undeniably impacted traditional retailers. However, we believe that brick-and-mortar shops still have a competitive edge over e-tailers, and that is the human aspect of a shopping experience,” said Mr Magnus Zederfeldt, Director, South Asia Pacific, Axis Communications. “Customers want authentic experiences today, and it is thus imperative for traditional retailers to leverage emerging technologies to enhance this. If implemented effectively, brick-and-mortar stores can flourish.”
Key highlights of Axis’ network video solution
Axis’ network video solution is capable of helping retailers in two key aspects:
1. Enhanced security
- Axis network video solution provides high resolution store-wide image coverage that enables retailers to follow any suspicious behaviour inside and outside store, even after operating hours.
- The new solution is able to distribute HD TV video over any kind of IP network or the internet, assisting investigators with crime and positive identification.
2. Enhanced customer experience
- When placed strategically, the network cameras can assist retailers in recording, measuring and better understanding consumer activity and buying behaviour.
- Retailers will be able to identify the popular areas in-store and optimise the store and display layouts accordingly.
Axis’ had previously launch its retail solution in the region, and some of its key customers include Hang Ten in Taiwan, and Volkswagen in China. Customers have feedback that the solution has not only helped to effectively reduce its operational costs, but also raised in-store surveillance and employee productivity.
“Competition against huge e-commerce players, such as Alibaba and Amazon, are heating up. As such, Singapore retailers must focus on delivering greater value to consumers through the implementation of digital initiatives in stores. This will enable local store owners to stand against e-tailers, and bring about enhanced experience for consumers,” said Zederfeldt.