Raising the Game in Brick-and-mortar Stores – Industry News

Gone are the days when installing cameras was seen as a mere security measure. With the rapid advancement of AI and computer vision, cameras can now do much more. For example, video analytics provides retailers with valuable insights into customer experience, employee behavior, and overall safety, allowing them to optimize store layout, product placement, and strategies. Raymond, a well-known player in the fashion and lifestyle industry, is showing the way forward. It has integrated Staqu’s Jarvis AI video analytics into its existing CCTV systems in over 1,400 stores to increase customer engagement and ensure a seamless shopping experience.

The diverse Mumbai-based group, which is approaching its centenary in 2025, has a rich collection of brands including Park Avenue, Raymond, Parx, Ethnics and ColorPlus. “Staqu’s Jarvis AV analytics software has delivered significant value to Raymond, providing AI-powered solutions that seamlessly integrate with our existing CCTV infrastructure to gather insightful data on customer behavior in our stores. This includes analyzing footfall, time spent in different sections and conversion rates, which helps us optimize store layouts, increase marketing effectiveness and enhance customer service,” said Ravi Hudda, Chief Technology Officer, Raymond.

“Using these insights, we are now making informed decisions to enhance our omni-channel strategy, delivering a consistent and efficient customer experience across Raymond’s retail, e-commerce and D2C channels, ultimately driving higher sales,” he said.

“Our IT operations encompass a range of advanced technologies to support our extensive retail and e-commerce networks. Our omni-channel strategy integrates online and offline customer journeys, supported by a robust CRM system for in-store marketing campaigns. E-commerce platforms and advanced supply chain management systems ensure efficient operations and seamless order fulfillment. In addition, modern POS systems enhance the in-store experience while adhering to rigorous data privacy standards to protect customer information,” he added.

With AI, computer vision, deep learning, patented technologies and unique capabilities, Jarvis helps transform long CCTV video recordings into meaningful information. Its plug-and-play functionality has made it easy to integrate into Raymond CCTV camera installations nationwide.

There is a growing demand for AI and machine learning technologies in the retail space that offer deep insights into customer experience and store analytics. According to Atul Rai, co-founder and CEO of Gurugram-based Staqu Technologies, Indian retailers are adopting AI-based analytics for in-store marketing campaigns, inventory optimization and improved customer experiences. Technologies like computer vision and heat map analysis are being used for in-store analytics and customer engagement.

E-commerce platforms have a wealth of data on their customers, including time spent on the website and section visits, but traditional retailers often lack these insights. “Jarvis helps bridge this gap by providing retailers with key data to compete with e-commerce,” Rai said, adding, “We currently work with brands like Olive, CCD, Starbucks, Metro, and WeWork, among many other leading brands in India.”

According to him, technologies such as AI, GenAI and IoT are significantly transforming the retail sector, providing them with influential capabilities. “These technologies enable retailers to analyze real-time data, predict trends and optimize customer engagement. As these innovations evolve, they will continue to drive influential changes in retail and other sectors, offering more experienced and streamlined operations. Embracing these advancements will be crucial for retailers to remain competitive and meet the ever-changing demands of the market,” he added.