CCTV and enhanced security infrastructure at Currys

Background

Currys is a major British retailer of electrical goods and provider of aftercare services that operates across the United Kingdom and Ireland. With a specialisation in white goods, consumer electronics, computers, and mobile phones, Currys has established itself as an industry leader. ASEL has been providing robust security solutions across Currys’ entire estate since 2021.

Client requirements

Currys’ primary objective was to enhance the security infrastructure across its estate to mitigate risks such as theft, vandalism and unauthorised access. To meet these requirements, we have provided expertise in CCTV, intruder alarm systems and electronic article surveillance (EAS). We also deliver ongoing security guarding services across five distribution sites and 20 retail stores with a team of approximately 100 security officers.

How it works

• Standardised installation procedures – ASEL installed intruder alarm systems, CCTV cameras, and EAS devices, ensuring adherence to standardised procedures to maintain consistency and quality across all sites. This approach helped streamline the installation process and optimise resource allocation.
• Effective communication with landlords – We established clear lines of communication with landlords involved in the façade project, ensuring transparency and cooperation throughout the disconnection and reconnection process. Timely updates and proactive problem-solving minimised delays and ensured we met vital project milestones.
• Seamless technology upgrades – We meticulously planned the rollout of DualCom signalling devices, scheduling upgrades on a phased schedule to minimise disruption to store operations. We undertook rigorous testing and contingency planning to mitigate any unforeseen challenges and ensure a smooth transition to the new technology.

The results

Through our collaboration with Currys, we have significantly upgraded the security infrastructure across the chain, providing comprehensive protection against potential threats.

Our effective communication with landlords, seamless technology rollouts and successful implementation of installations have demonstrated our commitment to delivering tailored security solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients. And when challenges have arisen, we have adapted our approach, showing our ability to innovate and ensuring the successful completion of each project.

Key outcomes across the contract over the last three years include:

• 97% of calls to our support team have resulted in a first-time fix
• More than 50% of calls resulted in a remote fix

These high rates of remote and first-time fixes ensure that the CCTV remain fully operational with minimal downtime and help to reduce costs.

To achieve this, we have created a CCTV asset register for every Currys site. Providing added value to our service, this asset register holds details on products, locations, estimated age and condition (based on visual inspection only), and when a call-out is received, we can see what system is in situ, enabling us to provide tailored support for each potential issue.

Outcomes

Using data and risk modelling to deliver targeted support

Working in close partnership with Currys, we utilise our industry-leading risk modelling service to ensure the highest-risk stores always have the support they need. Using all available data, we monitor the number of calls, manage the replacement of products in high-risk categories and locations, all while keeping a keen focus on maintaining control of annual budgets and delivering excellent return on investment.

Innovative solutions from ASEL

• Cable tray solution: At Currys’ Bolton Distribution Centre, we have introduced an innovative cable tray solution, removing the need for suspended camera poles and allowing ease of access for maintenance purposes. This solution has also allowed us to future-proof the installation: new cameras can be installed easily, and existing cameras can be relocated quickly along the tray. This is particularly useful when a refit is required or there is a need to adjust coverage. In turn, further time and money savings can be achieved in the future through this solution.
• Wireless Intruder Alarm: We delivered alarm solutions for the temporary containers installation during the Christmas period in multiple locations, removing the requirement for cabling and enabling rapid deployment of the system. At the end of the seasonal period, the equipment was removed and stored onsite for future use. This solution allowed us to provide cost-effective security measures to match seasonal requirements.
• Reducing costs on CCTV installations: The installation of further CCTV technology was transferred to the data cabling team as they fitted network cabling throughout the distribution centres and retail stores, reducing costs and maximising efficiency.

Secure for the future

In 2024, our contract with Currys was re-awarded for another 3 years, and we remain dedicated to supporting the retail chain in maintaining a safe and secure environment for its customers and staff. We’re committed to continually exploring opportunities for further optimisation and enhancement of the security infrastructure.