FES Support Services in partnership with Zippin delivered their first Frictionless Smart Retail store in Scotland for a global financial services company. This first store was launched at their headquarters in Edinburgh to serve their 1,300 staff members.

Zippin’s checkout-free technology is part of creating a “Better Normal” for shoppers and retailers by removing the friction of in-store shopping. By eliminating the checkout, Zippin gives shoppers their time back and helps retailers run their stores more efficiently with less demand for labour resources.

 The concept is to improve experiences for both the retailer and the shopper. Smart stores offer retailers greater potential to increase revenue growth by reducing payroll costs, increasing average transaction spend and achieving higher shopper conversion rates. This innovative retail technology eliminates waiting times at checkouts and offers a quick, seamless and convenient alternative to the traditional shopping experience.

Frictionless Smart Retail operates by swiping your phone on a QR reader at the entry turnstile. Shoppers then move through the store selecting their items and simply leave the store via the exit turnstile. There’s no checkout line, no scanning and no stopping. Shoppers are automatically charged for the goods they take with them.

Project Description:

FES Support Services delivered this solution by installing a Commscope structured cabling platform to provide end-to-end connectivity, facilitating the communication between in-store smart devices and AI Technology. AI Technology processes the information gathered from both entry and exit turnstiles, 216 weight calibrated shelf sensors and 46 overhead cameras throughout the store.  

Comms Services Delivered

• Structured cabling installation
• Network equipment
• AI-powered cameras
• AI-powered shelf sensors
• System calibration and testing

 Outcome:

The project was completed on time and on budget. Due to the successful delivery of this project, Zippin contracted FES Support Services to manage installations at new checkout-free stores in Oslo and Dublin airports.

 Client Feedback:

Tyler Thompson Zippin Project Manager commented:

” I had a great experience working with FES. As a Zippin installation partner, they were very attentive to detail. They went above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction, sometimes even exceeding project scope to ensure its success. Their thoroughness and dedication were truly impressive, and we look forward to continuing our partnership as we expand the number of Zippin-powered stores around the world.”

St James Quarter is a new, retail-led, lifestyle district that fully integrates into and enhances Edinburgh’s City Centre providing an inspiring, attractive, and vibrant destination for locals and visitors to live, shop, eat, sleep and play. St James Quarter houses an enviable line up of restaurants, cafés, bars, shops, public spaces and leisure venues covering 1.7 million square feet.

FES was contracted initially directly by the specialist consultant (PTS) to supply, install, test and commission two comms systems throughout the St James’ shopping centre.

St James Quarter shopping centre has implemented two advanced communication systems to enhance connectivity and security. The first system, a cellular DAS (Distributed Antenna System), designed by Pan RF, provides cellular coverage in all public areas of the shopping centre, including basement car parking, cinema, event spaces, and St James’ Hall. This system spans multiple levels, including basement parking, retail and lifestyle over 9 levels.

In addition to the cellular DAS, we have also deployed a Private Mobile Radio (PMR) system used by the dedicated site security team. This system enables seamless and secure communication for security personnel. TETRA coverage for critical communications, catering to the needs of emergency services, is also integrated into the PMR DAS.

Our cellular DAS and PMR systems ensure optimal mobile phone coverage, robust security communication, and reliable critical communication channels throughout the centre.

The client engaged FES to deliver the following:

• Supply, install, test and commission the cellular DAS and PMR / TETRA systems.

 Comms Services Delivered

• Cellular DAS System
• PMR Communication System
• Fibre Optic Installation, Termination & Testing
• CAT6A F/FTP Installation, Termination & Testing
• Cabinet Supply and Installation

Client Feedback:

“The work completed by the FES team was done under very trying circumstances with the construction of St James Quarter taking place at the same time. FES undertook the M&E fit out of the DAS MER on level B3 and completed on time to the highest standards that we have come to expect from FES. The communication between all parties was first-class. I would recommend FES as a first-class contractor.”

Alex McGinness TechIOSH, Technical Services and Facilities Director, St James Quarter