Shopping in Corona times: video-based solution helps retailers

A reliable and efficient way to measure customer foot traffic in retail is video-based people counting, writes vendor Axis. IP cameras with integrated video analysis would register people entering and leaving a store and thus automatically provide a quick overview of the total number in a store - purely generically and in compliance with data protection regulations. On this basis, information about the maximum number of people in the store could be provided via loudspeaker announcements or automated notifications. By linking the system to a monitor in the entrance area, waiting customers can see in real time when they are allowed to enter, the provider emphasizes. 

"At Axis, we are currently taking a close look at issues surrounding the topic of distance and safety regulations in the retail sector. By using technology in a targeted manner, store owners can relieve their employees and implement the new regulations without much effort. The protection of all consumers and, of course, employees is our top priority," says Ralph Siegfried, Business Development Manager in the Retail division at Axis. 

Quickly applicable 

The intelligent solution includes the combination of analysis software and a network camera, which can also be connected to the audio system or other hardware components if desired. The camera is ideally located above the entrance area and counts every person entering. Since it is an edge-based application that runs directly on the camera, no additional hardware such as a PC is required. This makes the solution quick to deploy and cost-effective, the vendor says. 

Source: Axis