The sound of success
To optimize their video surveillance solution, Construmart integrated their cameras with IP speakers from Axis - improving operations and increasing profitability.
The power of interoperability
These days it is quite common to hear ads and notifications while shopping. In the retail sector, audio systems have been useful for decades, but network audio goes beyond just playing commercials or background music. These audio devices are multifunctional systems that can be used to personalize experiences, create different types of atmospheres in various spaces within a single store, or issue reminders related to the safety of visitors and staff. For Construmart, a Chilean construction materials retailer with nearly 30 years in the market, integrating an Axis audio system into their existing video setup enabled them to leverage all these audio capabilities.
Construmart uses a non-Axis perimeter surveillance solution across 32 branches, three logistics centers, and its corporate headquarters. However, the system did not deliver the expected results. According to Cristián Loyola, National Security Manager at Construmart, the company recognized the need for a real-time communication and audio system to enable security personnel to monitor and respond to incidents remotely, both during and after business hours.
With this issue in mind, they partnered with Rocktech, a security and engineering solutions company and Axis partner to analyze different options that would allow Construmart to meet their audio needs. Miguel Castro, BDM at Rocktech, together with Nicolás Ramírez, Operations Manager, were responsible for the project, they both recall that after several tests, it was decided that Axis audio devices would integrate well into the existing video surveillance system.
At first, the integration seemed more complex than anticipated due to compatibility issues with the existing camera system. To overcome this challenge, the team utilized ONVIF (Open Network Video Interface Forum), an open standard that ensures seamless interoperability among IP security devices from different manufacturers, enabling flexible and future-proof solutions.
The power of audio
Due to the unique architecture of Construmart's stores, which typically feature very large spaces, a single IP speaker was not sufficient to ensure effective communication. Previously tested solutions worked in isolation, but did not allow for seamless integration. To address this challenge, Construmart implemented three 2N microphone paging consoles with an integrated audio management server and 155 Axis speakers distributed throughout all 32 stores.
"These audio systems not only broadcast commercial announcements, but more importantly, they enhance security in real-time. This system has completely transformed our ability to respond to risk situations. With the integration of audio and video, we have reduced losses and improved the security of our stores and distribution centers," says Cristian Loyola.
Sergio Manríquez, Commercial Manager at Rocktech notes, "Many speaker systems claim ease of integration, but few deliver. What sets this solution apart is its seamless functionality. From the control center, operators can effortlessly broadcast messages to multiple locations across Chile with just one click – a testament to the power of well-designed technology."
Today, thanks to this integration, operators at the control center can alert intruders at any of their stores through clear messages, informing them that it is private property, that the action is being recorded, and that the authorities have already been notified and are on their way.
The sound of success
Integrating the IP speakers and audio devices into the security system has generated extraordinary results, as detailed by Cristian Loyola. “The combination of high-resolution camera monitoring and IP audio systems has allowed a more efficient remote control, both in our standalone stores and our stores located within shopping centers. Since the implementation of this solution, the reduction in losses due to theft has been remarkable.”
All the investment was recovered in the first year, and I am proud of what we have achieved. Our annual losses were significantly reduced. In the first year, we reduced them by up to 85%. In the second year, they decreased by an additional 58%, and in the final year, we achieved a further 20% reduction. For our company's board, security is no longer the issue that it once was.
"During the three years of implementation, our annual losses in dollars were significantly reduced. In the first year, we reduced total losses by up to 85%. In the second year, they decreased by an additional 58%, and in the final year, we achieved a further 20% reduction," reports Loyola.
The return on investment was almost immediate, with costs recovered in the first year. This advancement has elevated Construmart to a new level in terms of security, enabling the company to focus on key strategic areas. Today, security is no longer a challenge for the company but a strength that provides a safer environment for its operations.
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