How South Korea’s #1 Convenience Store Franchise, GS25 Retail, Achieves Sustainability, Efficiency and Cost Savings with Scenera MAIstro

by | Apr 24, 2024 | Blog, News

In an era where sustainability is imperative,  GS25 Retail, a prominent convenience store chain under GS Group in South Korea, stands out as a pioneer of environmental consciousness and innovation, bolstered by AI-powered data management. 

With the aid of Scenera, a company specializing in AIoT data orchestration from edge to cloud AI computing, GS25 efficiently organizes, monitors, and analyzes vast amounts of video and sensor data from each operational store, enabling comprehensive visibility and control over every location. Despite these strides, GS25 faces the ongoing challenge of meeting sustainability goals in a dynamic market landscape, balancing cost-effectiveness and operational efficiency.

Building on TnM AI’s retail-focused energy management SaaS solution, Scenera is able to further enhance GS25 Retail’s capabilities for growth and opportunity using their MAIStro solution, an AI-driven Data Analytics Management system. This incorporation establishes a standardized data processing platform for IoT devices and IP cameras, streamlining data management and analysis across smart buildings and retail sectors. The integration of TnM AI’s Retail Environment Management System (REMS) into the MAIstro brand (rebranded as MAIstro REMS) reflects a strategic move towards international expansion and continued innovation. Through this partnership, GS25 Retail can now use the full potential of our customisable AI-powered solutions for energy management, security, and surveillance, further solidifying its position as a leader in sustainability and operational excellence within the retail industry.

Pioneering Innovation
GS25’s decision to adopt MAIstro REMS showcases its pioneering spirit in embracing cutting-edge technology for sustainable business practices. Back in 2015, GS25 embarked on this journey with Scenera, starting with 300 stores and now encompassing over 10,000 outlets. This initiative not only demonstrates GS25’s commitment to environmental responsibility but also positions them as industry leaders in ESG management.

Tangible Impact
The impact of MAIstro REMS on GS25’s operations and bottom line is undeniable. By leveraging IoT technology, MAIstro REMS enables real-time monitoring and control of energy consumption, resulting in significant cost savings. The approximate energy savings of KRW 12 billion by 2020 and a consistent 10% reduction in monthly electricity bills since 2017 underscore the tangible benefits of this partnership. It includes AI algorithms to prevent electricity usage overages in real time. With this overage protection in place, enrolled stores can realize additional energy cost savings: MAIstro REMS can re-model store energy needs, allowing stores to safely reduce subscribed power budgets compared to the levels recommended by the power company.  Moreover, MAIstro REMS aligns seamlessly with the evolving landscape of convenience stores, supporting and enhancing operational efficiency.

MAIstro REMS has had a tangible impact in reducing equipment maintenance costs, by 17%, through automated equipment monitoring and alerting.  Maintenance service contractors can be notified directly about potential problems with a snapshot of the relevant data — which can often lead to faster resolution of any equipment problem.

Environmental Leadership
Beyond financial gains, GS25’s adoption of MAIstro REMS reflects its commitment to environmental sustainability. By curbing energy wastage and reducing carbon emissions, GS25 contributes to national efforts aimed at mitigating climate change. MAIstro REMS also provides a freezer alarming system which notifies store operators of problems and prevents unnecessary food waste. This proactive stance not only enhances GS25’s brand reputation but also sets a precedent for other businesses to follow suit in prioritizing sustainability.

Future Vision
Looking ahead, GS25 remains steadfast in its pursuit of excellence. With ambitious goals to further integrate MAIstro REMS across all stores by 2025, GS25 envisions additional energy savings and operational efficiencies. Moreover, the company’s commitment to continuous innovation, leveraging technologies like computer vision and machine learning, ensures that MAIstro REMS evolves to meet the evolving needs of the business landscape.

A Model for Success
GS25’s success story with Scenera serves as a compelling example for businesses worldwide. By embracing sustainable practices and leveraging innovative technologies, companies can not only drive cost savings and operational efficiencies but also contribute positively to the environment and society at large. GS25’s holistic approach to sustainability, encompassing initiatives beyond MAIstro REMS like LED lighting adoption and equipment upgrades, underscores the importance of a comprehensive strategy towards ESG management.

The partnership between GS25 Retail and Scenera stands as a testament to the transformative power of innovation and collaboration. As businesses navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing world, initiatives like MAIstro REMS offer a roadmap towards a more sustainable and prosperous future. With GS25 leading the way, businesses across industries can draw inspiration from their journey and embark on their own path towards sustainability and success.