Digital solution to social distancing

With the scientific advice recommending that people stay two metres from one another, the usual flow of customers in and out of stores has proven difficult to manage for many.

However one Yorkshire digital firm claims to have developed a digital occupancy management system to help retailers faced with new Covid-19 requirements measure the number of customers in-store.

Leeds-based UX Global (UXG) has created Auto-Q, a digital signage solution which allows retailers to measure the number of customers inside their store at any given time and provide a ‘traffic light’ system for automatic control of entry to the store.

Using 3D sensors installed at store entrance and exit points, Auto-Q which provide accurate, real-time measurements of exactly how many people are inside, with programmable email and push notifications alerting staff at key capacity thresholds.

It also can advertise key information to waiting customers, such as estimated waiting times and safety guidance.

UXG, based in the Horsforth area of the city, said it can create bespoke units which can be positioned internally or externally in line with store requirements.

Its director Alistair Wright said: “In response to Covid-19, retailers are now required to adapt their stores like never before, with their priority rightly being the safety of their employees and customers.

“Our Auto-Q technology has been created with the latest occupancy requirements in mind. It offers an accurate, cost-effective, and reliable alternative to manual counting, enabling retailers to manage occupancy and queuing customers safely, efficiently and effectively, whilst reallocating staff to other important store operations.

“As with all of our solutions, the system can be designed and installed to meet bespoke requirements and integrated into existing systems and technologies.”

UXG operates from a 14,000 sq ft design and production facility in Horsforth..

It designs and manufactures digital, LED and retail displays for a range of clients across the UK and Europe, including Adidas, Sports Direct, Dixons Carphone and YO! Sushi.

UXG was also responsible for the upgrade of the digital strategy and wayfinding media for Leeds Playhouse, as part of the theatre’s eight-figure transformation.