Checkpoint Systems, a global RFID and RF technology solution provider, has acquired Denmark-based Alert Systems, an Internet of Things (IoT) specialist with a focus on metal and magnet detection in the retail environment.
Since 1999, Alert Systems has supplied the global retail industry with solutions to identify tools and techniques used by criminals to steal items from stores – these include boosterbags (handmade containers lined with foil used to shoplift) and detachers (illegal magnets used to detach tags with ease), commonly detected at store entrance/exits and fitting room areas.
For a number of years Checkpoint has been a partner and major distributor for the company to provide metal and magnet detection products, including Hyperguard, Metalguard and Apparelguard – a batch of digital software-driven solutions which work against professional shoplifters using boosterbags and detachers to steal items in hypermarkets, fashion stores, pharmacies and other retail stores.
Ben Lilienthal, President, Checkpoint Worldwide, said, “Organised retail crime (ORC) is increasing globally; in the US alone retailers saw a 26.5% increase in incidents in 2021 and shrinkage represented nearly $100 billion in losses in 2022. This is due to criminals using increasingly advanced methods of avoiding detection, some of which can defeat traditional EAS anti-theft solutions. These include foil-lined containers or booster bags which shield the security tag from the EAS system thus allowing stolen items to leave a store without triggering an alarm. By providing retailers with more information regarding when and where organized retail crime (ORC) threats are entering a store, the new solutions will help retailers drive down the ever-increasing prevalence of gang-related crime.”
