Premier retailer Girish Jeeva has completely wiped out theft from his ‘beer cave’ since installing an AI-powered age-verification system.
The MyCheckr device, supplied by Innovative Technology, has also helped to prevent minors from accessing the alcohol section, freed up staff time, and created a more seamless shopping experience, the retailer said.
It sits at the entrance of the ‘beer cave’ and automatically opens the door for customers who appear over 25, with no interaction required.
If a customer approaches who looks under 25, the door remains closed, and MyCheckr sends an alert to staff via the MyConnect app. Once ID has been manually checked, staff can remotely open the door and allow access.
Jeeva was incentivised to introduce the technology due to various challenges facing the store, which is in Barmulloch, Glasgow, including a rise in shoplifting.
Jeeva also wanted to prevent minors from accessing alcohol and safeguard the business by reducing liability and ensuring legal compliance.
He was also looking at how he could protect employees during the difficult age check decision-making process. Jeeva explained human judgement can be influenced by a number of factors such as intimidation, fatigue, and distractions.
Since installing MyCheckr over the summer, the store has not reported one incident of theft, according to Jeeva.
If someone enters the store with the intention of shoplifting, when they see the MyCheckr device it makes them reconsider their intentions, therefore acting as an effective deterrent, he said.
The MyCheckr system has also helped to deliver a seamless experience for customers over 25, while freeing up staff time to focus on customer service.
Remote alerts for shoppers who look underage, meanwhile, have given staff the confidence to ask for ID when needed, reducing confrontations and improving overall efficiency.
“The Innovative Technology MyCheckr age-estimation device at the entrance to the beer cave adds a new layer of security to our store,” said Jeeva.
“Not only does it reinforce age restrictions and ensure responsible sales practices, but it also acts as a strong deterrent to potential shoplifters.
“Using the MyConnect app to remotely approve or deny any underage access attempts means we are improving staff efficiency too. A game-changer for the store, staff and customers.”
Jeeva initially installed the technology at till points for alcohol and tobacco sales last year.
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