“At CBE, we strive to give our customers the very best solutions, services, and support,” said Shane McGowan, systems director of CBE.
“By harnessing cutting-edge technology such as artificial intelligence (AI) and innovative cloud-based solutions like CBE Cloud, we’re empowering retailers to stay one step ahead, improving their bottom line, while enhancing the customer experience.”
AI’s transformative impact is most evident in self-checkout systems. Tools such as Picklist Assist simplify item selection by leveraging computer vision technology. Cameras identify attributes like colour and weight to suggest a concise list of item matches, improving checkout accuracy and efficiency.
“Machine learning ensures these systems get smarter over time,” McGowan said. “The more they’re used, the better they adapt to the specific needs of each business.”
CBE’s Produce Assurance offering uses real-time comparisons to detect discrepancies between items scanned and placed on the scale. Any mismatch triggers an alert for immediate staff intervention, reducing fraud and ensuring accuracy.
CBE’s AI is also helping to transform retail security through advanced surveillance systems. By analysing live video feeds, the AI detects suspicious behaviours such as unusual movements or prolonged loitering, enabling security teams to act proactively.
“This shift to a real-time, data-driven approach allows retailers to deter theft before it occurs,” McGowan said.
AI analytics is being used in a pivotal role in minimising shrinkage by processing vast datasets to uncover potential vulnerabilities. Shrinkage – a persistent challenge for retailers – threatens profitability and disrupts operations. Advanced tools that analyse inventory, sales, and employee activity can uncover patterns of theft or errors, helping businesses protect their bottom line.
“Retailers can implement targeted solutions, whether it’s refining training programmes or adjusting staffing levels, to address specific challenges,” McGowan said.
Additionally, AI-driven training modules enhance workforce preparedness. By identifying skill gaps – such as frequent checkout errors – AI recommends tailored training, ensuring employees are equipped to support the business’s goals.
Centralising solutions for a modern era
The CBE Cloud platform integrates innovations into a seamless, centralised ecosystem. “Our solutions consolidate everything from inventory tracking to transactional monitoring,” McGowan said.
“This not only enhances security but also offers real-time insights into shrinkage patterns, compliance issues, and more.”
Security reports in CBE Cloud aggregate data into customisable actionable dashboards, enabling managers to track incidents and respond proactively. Meanwhile, its inventory management tools utilise machine learning to forecast demand, optimise stock levels, and prevent costly overstocking or shortages.
The benefits extend beyond financial savings. “By moving to the cloud, businesses lower their capital investment by minimising the need for on-premise hardware, reducing power consumption, which helps them go greener,” McGowan said.
Retailers managing fuel sales can gain a competitive edge through CBE Head Office Wetstock & Price Pole Link tools, within CBE Cloud. These solutions are designed to ensure consistent, accurate pricing across locations and provide real-time insights into fuel inventory, delivery accuracy, and pump performance.
“Innovative analytics even detect leaks or theft, ensuring compliance and reducing losses,” McGowan said.
Revolutionising hospitality
In hospitality, CBE’s Innova EPoS solution offers cutting-edge flexibility, being fully compatible with both iOS and Android platforms. This gives business owners the freedom to choose the system that best suits their unique needs.
Its nimble design ensures smooth integration and scalability for businesses of any size.
“Hospitality businesses need adaptable solutions. CBE Innova delivers flexibility and advanced features, including real-time Cloud Dashboard reporting, empowering owners to make informed decisions anytime, anywhere,” McGowan said.
Complementing this innovation, order and pay devices are helping to transform operations by allowing staff to take orders and process payments through a single device directly at the table.
“It’s a game-changer for restaurants, hotels, and cafés ensuring operational excellence while enhancing the customer experience,” McGowan said.
Leading the way to a greener future
CBE’s commitment to staying ahead is exemplified by its significant investment in research and development. With a dedicated R&D team in Claremorris, Co Mayo, and over €3.5 million invested annually, the company strives to be consistently first to market with solutions that meet evolving industry demands.
“The demand for our CBE Cloud solution in retail has really taken off since the pandemic,” McGowan said.
As sustainability becomes a key priority, CBE is helping retailers lower their carbon footprint.
“We assist our customers in reducing power consumption and implementing greener practices.
“It’s about combining business efficiency with environmental responsibility,” McGowan said.
“We listen to our customers and tailor our solutions to their needs. At CBE, we’re not just providing technology—we’re empowering businesses to thrive in an ever-changing landscape.”