the gold standard for the industry. As such, we’re now seeing an ever-increasing convergence between security and digital technology to provide a range of security services that go beyond the ‘traditional’ guarding and protection work the industry has long been associated with.


“The adoption of new and different technologies including AI, IP and cloud-based systems, and remote managed services, has seen the evolution of intelligent fire and security systems that provide customers with ‘real-time’ insights and data analytics that help to increase security, and mitigate risks, as well as increasing operational efficiencies.”


Specialist or Generalist?


Some security service providers specialise in specific areas of industry; for example, events, retail or aviation. There are pros and cons to using a provider with or without specialist services. We asked some leaders in the field to comment:


Gary Sullivan OBE, chairman at Wilson James, says: “If your organisation is 'niche' or predominantly in one sector, then there may be benefits to having a specialist contractor. However, a better option may be one who can give you breadth and depth from elsewhere in the company. A provider that has a network of subject matter experts, to call on as required, will be able to offer greater agility when managing a changing threat landscape. Rarely is the security threat so specific that you need full-time specialists. The two obvious contradictions are cyber and close protection.”


If your organisation has highly specialised requirements, for example aviation, then there may be benefits to working with a security provider that specialises in this. Andy Kynoch, Managing Director – ICTS UK & Ireland, says: “They will have the processes and systems in place to follow strict protocols and procedures as the aviation industry is governed by extremely rigid international and national regulations. These regulations establish standards and best practices and ensure a consistent and uniform approach to aviation security globally.”


Kieran Mackie, MD at Amulet, has similar views when it comes to luxury retail: “Having a specialist team that recognises heightened security measures required for designer brands and stores is necessary for businesses to feel comfortable. Not only do they guarantee a great security service, but they also understand a client’s needs to reflect the luxury element of their brand. Security might be a customer’s first point of contact when they enter the store, so ensuring they are both professional and in line with the brand’s image is essential. A specialist provider will understand these niche needs better than a general security company.”


© CITY SECURITY MAGAZINE – SPRING 2023 www.citysecuritymagazine.com


The extended policing family


There are established partnerships and collaborations between private security and public sector law enforcement, including policing, the other emergency services, local authorities and government departments. This means that private security companies are sometimes referred to as part of the ‘extended policing family’. Jon Felix, Risk and Threat Advisor at CIS Security, says: “Police and Security (PAS) is more evident and more vital than ever before. Private security provides more and more shared resources, services and initiatives. Clients are opening up their environments for initiatives such as dedicated Servator training sites, live environments for K9 teams and BID engagement. These shared opportunities are also demonstrating that the quality of security being delivered, and in some cases the level of training, is equal to that of the police.


“Barriers are being overcome; where previously security was seen as lower level than the police, the growth of the PAS is showing this is not the case. I know from first-hand experience we are being engaged more and more as a force multiplier. There’s still some way to go but with the right people driving this from both private and law enforcement sides, the extended family will get stronger and in my opinion it has to.”


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