Intermarché Implements AI for Enhanced Self-Checkout Monitoring
The Les Mousquetaires group, pleased with an American system tested since last year in one of its Var stores, plans to implement it across all stores by 2025. What do customers think?
A Retail Revolution: Artificial Intelligence at the Checkout
The Les Mousquetaires group, a titan in French retail with brands like Intermarché, Netto, Bricomarché, and Bricorama, is set to leap forward in technological innovation. By 2025, they plan to equip their self-checkouts with an AI-assisted video surveillance system, named Vynamic Smart Vision.
A Tested and Approved System
Developed by American company Diebold Nixdorf, the system has been successfully piloted since last year at an Intermarché store in La Farlède, Var. According to store manager Laurent Hugou, the technology has not only minimized errors but also enhanced smoother and more pleasant interactions between staff and customers. In just six months, it has become an indispensable daily tool.
Technology Serving Control
The system operates on real-time behavioral analysis. Cameras monitor payment terminals where customers scan their items, and an AI algorithm detects any unusual movements. If suspicious activity is detected, a message on the terminal screen prompts the customer to check their items. If the issue persists, an alert can be sent to the staff. The system has been trained on over 15,000 transactions to recognize about twenty different scenarios.
The trial results in Var are striking: erroneous transactions dropped from 3% to less than 1%. Additionally, cashier interventions decreased by nearly 15%, streamlining self-service checkout transactions and reducing manual interventions. Diebold Nixdorf also reports reduced waiting times and an optimized shopping experience for customers.
Adherence to Personal Data Protection
In terms of personal data protection, the system adheres to GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation). Customers are informed about the cameras, and their faces are blurred. Videos are not stored long-term, ensuring customer data protection.
It remains to be seen if customers will truly appreciate this new shopping experience under the watchful eye of AI.