UK retailer Tesco has begun a 10-week trial of crime reporting platform Auror, aiming to deter retail crime and keep staff, customers and local communities safe.

The Auror platform, which is already used by several retailers and UK police forces, will make it easier and quicker for staff to report security incidents. By bringing all the data and information into a single source, this simplifies the process for retailers and the police to build, manage, track, and resolve cases faster.

During the trial, CCTV footage of serious incidents and theft will be reviewed by specifically trained colleagues at the Tesco Security Hub in Daventry. Where necessary, CCTV still images may be analysed retrospectively using non-live facial recognition, as part of an investigation.

Tesco has invested tens of millions of pounds over the last four years in a range of security measures, including investing at its highest ever rates in security officers and in practical measures such as body worn cameras, protective screens, additional mobile security officer support, and door entry systems.

“The investments we are making in improving safety across our store network will ensure that we not only lead the way in tackling the symptoms of retail crime, but drive collaboration right across the retail sector to deter would-be criminals,” said Rachel Bennett, Security Director at Tesco.

The Auror trial will be conducted across 40 stores in Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire.

Mark Gleeson, VP UK and Europe at Auror says the technology company is “delighted” to partner with Tesco to help build on the work they’re doing to keep their stores safe, and address the issue of violent and organised retail crime.

“By using Auror, Tesco are joining the world’s largest network of leading retailers – all helping to surface the scale and severity of retail crime offending,” he said.

“Across the UK, the top 10% of offenders are causing 70% of the crime, and one in every 10 retail crime events are violent or involve weapons.”

UK retail crime is at a record high, with the latest British Retail Consortium Crime Survey reporting that incidents of violence and abuse against retail workers now surpass 2000 a day.