The Pantiles Shopping Centre: Footfall Counting Solutions

The Pantiles is a distinctive retail area boasting over 70 independent stores, offering a shopping experience tailored to discovering unique treasures not commonly found in traditional shopping centres.  

Challenges

Our mission at Inkspotwifi was to implement a footfall counting system capable of accurately counting each visitor entering the scheme through any of its nine entrances. Throughout this process, we encountered several challenges. Firstly, due to the outdoor nature of the area, each counter required placement within a waterproof enclosure to safeguard against the elements. Secondly, the lack of power outlets at any of the entrance necessitated the use of battery powered counters. We implemented remote battery monitoring via Wi-Fi to ensure continuous operation. Additionally, the historical infrastructure of the Pantiles, spanning over 400 years, posed structural complexities. Uneven terrain and historic buildings required careful consideration for precise counter placement, with level surfaces paramount for optimal functionality. Lastly, adapting mounting methods to accommodate diverse surfaces like trees and stone walls during installation added further considerations to the process.   

Our Approach

Preparation was key to overcoming these challenges. Firstly, we collaborated with out dedicated footfall engineer to conduct a comprehensive site survey, evaluating the specific conditions of each entrance. Subsequently, we conducted thorough testing of both the devices and the material intended for installation, ensuring detailed preparation before implementation.  

Hardware That We Used

8 pairs of Beam Counters 1 x Radar Counter 1 x Booster Antenna to pick up the connection of each counter

What We've Achieved

Through meticulous planning and execution, we have successfully implemented a reliable footfall monitoring system across the Pantiles. Real-time data analysis, made possible by the network of counters, provides invaluable insights into visitor traffic patterns. This empowers the centre to make informed decisions based on accurate and up to date information.  

What's Next?

Looking ahead, our primary focus is on continually monitoring the performance of the footfall counting system and promptly addressing any potential issues that may arise. Future initiatives include leveraging advanced analytics to tailor offerings to evolving consumer preferences, fostering a dynamic and immerse shopping environment.