San Francisco-based Focal Systems develops AI-powered retail automation solutions built around a network of patented low-cost shelf cameras that digitize the sales floor and backroom hourly to deliver operational efficiencies, availability increases, sales growth, and inventory reduction. Led by CEO Francois Chaubard, the company offers a platform to help retailers automate and optimize operations to maximize cash flows through improved inventory, supply chain, and labor efficiency. Entering 2021 the company had 10,000 cameras deployed, and over the course of the year that number grew 400%, with more than 40,0000 additional cameras deployed to major retailers across the globe. The company already has commitments to deploy an additional 200,000 cameras in 2022. Focal plans to use new funding to continue growth and innovation of its AI-powered retail automation solutions and to expand its global sales and technical teams. Focal Systems provides AI-powered cameras and an advanced analytics stack that functions as a retail store operating system. The company uses fixed shelf cameras and deep-learning computer vision to monitor shelves multiple times per day, increasing on-shelf availability and addressing out-of-stock issues. Its algorithms also aim to eliminate checkout friction and feed into an AI engine that automates decision-making to optimize planograms, labor schedules, associate productivity, and supply-chain processes. Focal works with leading retailers on four continents and positions its solutions as enabling retailers and brands to implement actionable intelligence that drives efficiencies and sales. Following the investment, the company plans to accelerate its product roadmap and scale globally, including joint go-to-market efforts with its investor.

Total raised

$26M

Funding rounds

2

Latest round

Series B

Latest activity

Jan 2022