Advance has been working with Tesco since 2001, when it was selected as the manned guarding supplier for ten Tesco stores and chosen to work on the then pioneering cell project, which saw the UK divided into geographical areas. Tesco has now introduced ‘Super Cells’ and reduced their suppliers from six to two.
Advance also supplies manned guarding to seven distribution centres in the North of England and Scotland via a separate contract awarded in April 2008. The latest contract win will see this provision enhanced with the supply of 579 officers to 280 Tesco stores across these regions.
Overcoming challenges
Ian Bourne, buying manager at Tesco, said: “Advance’s ‘can do, will do’ ethos has been continually demonstrated throughout our partnership. Working with Tesco, they are committed to overcoming all challenges put to them, with minimal disruption to service delivery.”
This high level of customer service was highlighted earlier in 2008 when the Advance Security team was awarded the Tesco Values Award. This award recognises staff and suppliers who have provided significant commitment to Tesco, over and above what is normally expected. This was only the second time that Tesco had presented the award to a security supplier.
Advance Security Retail and Supply Chain managing director Chris Fieldhouse said: “I am delighted that Advance Retail Division has been awarded the Tesco contract. Our unique history with Tesco has provided us with an invaluable insight into the Tesco brand and has enabled us to share ideas and consistently drive forward best practice. We will continue to work with Tesco to evaluate its security requirements and introduce new programmes and initiatives accordingly.”