We recently spoke with INEO Solutions Inc. CEO Kyle Hall to find out more about this Vancouver business that installs digital screens in retails stores using their patented technology.
What is your business called and what does it do?
We are INEO Solutions Inc. With INEO’s patented technology, we install digital screens in retail stores’ most valuable real estate – their front entrance. Normally, this space is reserved for loss prevention detection equipment, but INEO combines these loss prevention systems with digital advertising screens that greet customers upon arrival. Our system allows for varied messaging, including advertisements, in-store messaging and even amber alerts. INEO utilizes cutting-edge neural net technology to give hyper accurate customer counts and valuable data such as age, gender and CSAT score. INEO also provide customers with a cloud dashboard that allows them to have insight into foot traffic count, alarm events and system health. The loss prevention technology, which is integrated into the system, also includes video capture of alarm events and real-time notifications to our customers.
What made you want to do this work?
There were a few driving forces which brought INEO to be a leader in reinventing the entrance of the retail store. The overall “retail apocalypse”, which was compounded even more by COVID, meant retailers were searching for ways to reinvent themselves and be more customer centric. At the same time, the existing loss prevention equipment used in retail today is quite antiquated. INEO positioned itself at the nexus of these two trends and developed patented technology to drastically improve the loss prevention equipment while at the same time making it a customer-facing advertising, messaging and data collecting device. The Welcoming System was born.
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
Our guiding directive has always been protecting retail inventory and assets while also greeting customers with a brand positive image of the store and the products it carries Theft in retail has a huge impact on the sustainability of a retailers business, and any reduction in theft can go right to the retailer’s bottom line. Similarly, messaging consumers as they walk into the store about key retailer services and products helps engage the customer and showcase products they may be looking for. INEO solves both of these problems with one solution.
Who are your clientele/demographics?
We currently work with retail stores in Western Canada, and are quickly expanding into the US and Europe.
How does your business make money? How does it work?
INEO puts the Welcoming System into the retail store for no cost to the retailer. In exchange, INEO sells the advertising time available on the bright bold digital display screens built into the systems. Essentially, INEO sells digital out-of-home advertising for its revenue, similar to a billboard company who has digital screens located around a city.
Where in Vancouver can we find your profession?
INEO’s head office and research and development facility is located in Surrey, British Columbia. There are currently 110 INEO Welcoming Systems deployed at retailers in BC and Alberta with more being installed every week.
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services?
Q: How can I secure my inventory from theft and engage my customers as they walk into the store?
A: The INEO Welcoming System is the patented solution to these problems, combining loss prevention systems with digital advertising to greet and engage customers from the moment they walk in the store.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
We are a young, fast growing company which never lacks for opportunity. We are inventing the business every day as we are the first company of its kind.. It is fun and exciting to be apart of cutting edge product development and business innovation.
At the same time that is what makes it tough. Prioritizing and staying focused on our core strategic initiatives is the hard part.
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another Vancouver business that you love?
