The dilemma between how to let customers get hands-on with a product while ensuring they don't run, hands away with it has been a long-running (pun intended) one. BC-based Halo Metrics hopes to have come up with an ideal solution to the issue; while adding a new element that supplies the customer with instant data about a product.

The gorgeous new portable product security posts look almost too good to be merchandisers. Each circular accessory can accommodate one gadget, like a digital camera, camcorder, mobile phone, or MP3 player. The device is connected to a cord that runs through the hollow centre of the post, affording the gadget full power and keeping it charged, yet securing it from theft. Each unit is also connected to an independent alarm that will trigger a video recording of the incident.

Where the system gets really interesting is in Halo's new yBuy initiative. Lift a product from its post, and an LCD above the retail display instantly reveals information about it. This might include specifications, price, current deals and promotions; whatever the retailer desires. Typically, the system would be used in big-box retail outlets where customers might have basic questions about a product, but don't want to wait around for a salesperson to ask them. When a product has not been lifted, the LCD can display a video loop, advertising the retailer's latest promotions, brand, or any other piece of video material.

Taking the system a step further is back-end software that can tabulate metrics like how many times a product was lifted (in total, per hour, or even by region or store) and for how long. Cross-reference this information with sales data, or use it within vendor co-op programs, to determine how hands-on actually translates to sales. The information can also be used to determine which post locations are most successful, and thus to help to improve store layout and product placements.

The software system can be managed at either a store level or corporate level; and yBuy information updated easily via individual fields specific to each product post. Everything is controlled via a CPU, and a secure online log-in to access the data. The yBuy display is powered by a digital interface box that can control up to 12 posts; and up to four can be daisy-chained together, limited by the number of available USB ports. But, as Ravinder Sangha, Marketing Manager at Halo Metrics, points out, too many products on a single screen could make for a congested display.

While pricing for the yBuy system is still being determined, it will most certainly vary depending on the particular setup a retailer would like, along with software and licensing fees. Halo says yBuy is scheduled to be available in late Q4 of this year. For more information, visit www.halometrics.com/ybuy.

Loss prevention is a major issue; according to a recent study by PricewaterhouseCoopers and Retail Council of Canada, Canadian retailers lose upwards of $3 billion per year on theft.

Ravinder Sangha, Marketing Manager at Halo Metrics, demonstrates the company's new yBuy security and customer interaction system, which instantly displays information about a product on a connected LCD as it's lifted from a security post.

Article Tags:  product, system, information, display, metrics, retail, retailer, lifted, store, software, video, hands, connected, security, available, level, determine, ravinder, sangha, manager, marketing, sales, customer, issue, instantly, customers, promotions, gadg