According to the latest Global Retail Theft Barometer, shoplifting is on the increase. Almost 50 per cent of retailers (47.5 per cent) cited organized retail crime for global losses.
New Jersey-based Checkpoint Systems is trying to address this issue and has launched MetalPoint HyperGuard, a new digital, software-driven solution that detects the most common tools such as foil bags or magnets used by organized retail crime groups to shoplift in stores.
The new MetalPoint HyperGuard technology enhances EAS detection, enabling retailers to identify potential shoplifters as they enter stores. The solution will help retailers improve the availability of high-risk merchandise on the shelves and ensure a better shopping experience for consumers.
The MetalPoint HyperGuard was developed based on specific retailer feedback and gives loss prevention managers an additional tool to help identify potential shoplifters as soon as they enter the store.
The MetalPoint HyperGuard has three detection capabilities: foil bag detection, magnet detection (available May 2013) and metal cart/trolley detection, all of which run concurrently to improve alarm reliability and deter organized criminals from using tactics to avoid detection.
A number of features help enhance the capabilities of the MetalPoint HyperGuard software solution. For example, advanced digital 3D-sensing technology detects metal in either foil-lined bags or magnets and determines if a potential shoplifter has entered the store and by which entrance/exit. Metal shopping carts are also identified as such and no longer detected as a threat, thereby reducing the number of false alarms. Now store associates will receive a signal that an individual carrying a common shoplifting device has entered their store, allowing them to take the necessary precautions to avoid potential thefts.
MetalPoint HyperGuard can be installed as a stand-alone pedestal alongside existing radio frequency electronic article surveillance EAS antennas, acting as a visual deterrent against organized retail crime gangs or integrated into Checkpoint’s EVOLVE line of antennas.
Farrokh Abadi, Checkpoint Systems’ president and CEO said MetalPoint HyperGuard technology enhances EAS detection, enabling retailers to identify potential shoplifters as they enter stores. The solution will help retailers improve the availability of high-risk merchandise on the shelves and ensure a better shopping experience for consumers.