Retail communications specialist VoCoVo is teaming up with Wakefern Food Corp. to bring a new, hands-free communication device to associates at select ShopRite supermarkets in the tri-state area.

After successfully piloting the VoCoVo Series 5 Pro Headset at one store over the past few months, the two companies are rolling the technology out to 30 stores, including three in New Jersey – Bayonne, Lodi and Wyckoff. Additional ShopRite locations will be included following the initial launch, they said.

As a fully integrated communication solution, the all-in-one wireless headset aims to enhance employee communications and retail operations. Key features include the ability to make, receive and transfer customer calls directly from the headset.

It can also connect with curbside pick-up services and self-checkout systems as well as convert any associated real-time notification into instant voice alerts to ensure swift and efficient responses from store teams.

Designed for durability, the headsets are waterproof, dustproof, impact-resistant and can withstand extreme temperatures — all while delivering up to 40 hours of standby time per charge. They also boast full-duplex audio that allows uses to talk and listen simultaneously through an environment noise-cancelling microphone purposely built for noisy retail settings.

Enhanced communication, empowered workers

Chris McCrae, retail innovation lead at Keasbey-based Wakefern, commented, “ShopRite store teams report more seamless direct communication with the headsets. The feedback from our stores has been very positive, and we’re excited to add VoCoVo’s headsets to even more locations this year.”

Joe Szala, senior vice president at VoCoVo, said, “It has been a privilege to support Wakefern’s family-owned ShopRite stores in enhancing communication, empowering retail workers to connect seamlessly with their colleagues and customers through VoCoVo. We look forward to continuing our collaboration to bridge the final mile toward fully connected associates with integrated, automated communications.”

Founded in 1946, Wakefern’s nearly 50 member companies include ShopRite, Price Rite Marketplace, The Fresh Grocer, Gourmet Garage, Dearborn Market and Fairway Market. The organization owns and operates 365 stores across New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island.

VoCoVo was established in 1994. Over 20,000 retailers and restaurants across more than 20 countries utilize the company’s technology. Based in Oxford, England, VoCoVo also has a North American headquarters in Chicago.

In 2023, VoCoVo expanded into the U.S. market via a partnership with premier food retailer The Fresh Market Inc.