According to a new study by Zebra Technologies, nearly two-thirds (67%) of retail shoppers are concerned with surface sanitation or social exposure in stores. To better accommodate customers, retailers must deploy technologies that aid in compliance with social distancing measures, mask mandates, and sanitation practices. Through the use of security solutions, like hands-free two-way audio, video surveillance, access control, and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven analytics, business owners can better protect employees and customers.

In late February 2020, news broke in the United States that the once faraway threat of a “novel coronavirus” had spread to U.S. soil. As COVID-19 case numbers in major cities grew, stay-at-home orders were put in place, businesses closed, restaurants shifted to take-out only, and retailers adopted curbside service. All of this took place to slow the spread of COVID-19.  Meanwhile, however, hospitals remained open — accepting new patients at the direction of the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and working diligently to adhere to new safety guidelines. During virus, or any pandemic outbreaks, we are acutely reminded of our essential frontline healthcare workers, the critical need to enhance their overall safety, security, and to be as efficient as possible when communicating vital information.