The Challenge
As the impact of “shrink” (or theft) grew in all major retail sectors, Lowe’s faced increasing pressure to reinforce loss-prevention measures at the front of the store. Traditional lane-closure methods — such as chains, ropes, or improvised barriers — were inconsistent, easy to bypass, and did not meet the operational demands of a high-volume home improvement environment. Lowe’s required a reliable, durable, and standardized solution for securing unmanned checkout lanes while maintaining a clean, unobtrusive appearance.
The Solution: Retail Edge by Modus
To address these front-end security challenges, Lowe’s deployed Retail Edge across all 1,700+ stores within a single year, creating a unified nationwide approach to lane control. Retail Edge’s compact, mounted units feature plain blue retractable barriers engineered specifically for loss prevention at the register.
When a lane needs to be closed, the 3-foot-high banner pulls across the aisle to create a clear visual and physical boundary. When open, the banner retracts instantly into a low-profile aluminum housing, preserving the wide, accessible layout expected in a large-format retail environment.
Retail Edge provides consistent, controlled access without obstructing carts, customers, or staff workflows. The system’s durability and small footprint make it ideal for busy front ends where equipment must withstand continuous use.
Key Features Delivered
- Plain blue, high-visibility banners designed for loss-prevention use
- Fast retracting mechanism for quick open/close transitions
- Compact hardware that preserves aisle accessibility
- Standardized installation across 1,700+ stores
- Durable construction built for high-traffic retail environments
The Impact
Retail Edge delivered immediate improvements in lane control and shrink reduction by providing Lowe’s with a consistent, storewide method for securing unmanned checkout lanes. The smooth nationwide rollout — completed in less than a year — demonstrated the system’s ease of installation and operational compatibility.
Store teams reported improved workflow efficiency at the front end, as Retail Edge allowed staff to quickly close or reopen lanes without disrupting customer movement. The standardized barrier also created a more organized checkout environment while supporting Lowe’s loss-prevention strategy across every location.
Looking Ahead
Retail Edge has become a core component of Lowe’s front-of-store security, proving that a streamlined, durable barrier system can significantly enhance loss prevention without compromising the customer experience. As operational needs evolve, Retail Edge provides the foundation for a safer, more controlled self-checkout environment across the entire retail chain.
