Retail technology tie up as Pricer and Focal Systems announce in-store digitalisation strategic collaboration

Pricer and Focal Systems have annnounced a partnership focused on accelerating the digitisation and optimisation of physical retail stores.  

This brings together Pricer’s dynamic pricing and shelf-edge communication expertise with 2024 RTIH Innovation Awards winner Focal Systems’ computer vision and product availability solutions.

By integrating Focal Systems’ AI powered shelf vision cameras with Pricer’s electronic shelf label (ESL) platform, retailers will benefit from real-time shelf insights, which power automated detection and alerting of out-of-stock or low items to achieve rapid replenishment. 

Meanwhile, dynamic task automation from the combined solution streamlines store staff workflows, prioritising tasks to improve operational efficiency and productivity among store associates, with patented camera-based out-of-stock detection and communication solutions optimising replenishment, as well as delivering shelf-edge intelligence to support in-store analytics. 

“We are proud to combine our leadership in ESL technology with Focal Systems’ AI powered shelf vision,” says Chris Chalkitis, CDO at Pricer.  “Both companies share a belief in the digitalisation of the physical store. Pricer has been a pioneer in dynamic pricing and shelf-edge communication.  With Focal Systems, we take the next step, digitising what’s on the shelf – and what’s not – to drive greater efficiency and performance for retailers.”

“Partnering with Pricer, a global leader with groundbreaking ESL technology and innovation, creates tremendous value for retailers,” says Kevin H. Johnson, CEO at Focal Systems.  “Together, we deliver an integrated, data-driven solution that reduces operational complexity, automates workflows and enhances the in-store experience.  We look forward to demonstrating this powerful collaboration to retailers and their customers.”

RTIH AI in Retail Awards

RTIH, organiser of the industry leading RTIH Innovation Awards, proudly brings you the first edition of the RTIH AI in Retail Awards, which is now open for entries. 

As we witness a digital transformation revolution across all channels, AI tools are reshaping the omnichannel game, from personalising customer experiences to optimising inventory, uncovering insights into consumer behaviour, and enhancing the human element of retailers' businesses.

With 2025 set to be the year when AI and especially gen AI shake off the ‘heavily hyped’ tag and become embedded in retail business processes, our newly launched awards celebrate global technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world and the resulting benefits for retailers, shoppers and employees.

Our 2025 winners will be those companies who not only recognise the potential of AI, but also make it usable in everyday work - resulting in more efficiency and innovation in all areas.

Winners will be announced at an evening event at The Barbican in Central London on Thursday, 3rd July. This will kick off with a drinks reception in the stunning Conservatory, followed by a three course meal, and awards ceremony in the Garden Room.

Please email our Editor, Scott Thompson, if you have any questions or need further information: scott.thompson@retailtechinnovationhub.com

Key 2025 dates

Friday, 23rd May: Award entry deadline 

Tuesday, 27th May: 2025 finalists revealed

Wednesday, 28th May - Friday, 13th June: Judging days

Thursday, 3rd July: Winners announced at the 2025 RTIH AI in Retail Awards Ceremony, to be held at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London.