Tesco sounds out radio tag tracking

Tesco is to test electronic product tagging on DVDs next month, to gauge whether the technology would improve availability across the business.

The grocer will use radio frequency identity tags (RFID) on products at its Sandhurst Extra store. Tags are linked to a central computer accessible to staff, informing them how many products are on the shelf, when they move and when they need to be restocked.

Tesco IT director Colin Cobain said: 'Tagging products will lead to real improvements with instant information and improved availability.' Tags may also eventually be put on food packaging to flag up when products are approaching sell-by dates.

Marks & Spencer announced it will test RFID on clothing later this year.