22 July 2022 - Security Buyer Magazine

What to expect at Security Essen

Following the 2020 Security Essen cancellation, the event is back, showcasing over 950 international companies ready to show the latest advancements in security technology After the pandemic destroyed the events industry and brought cancellation upon cancellation of exhibitions, the return of Security Essen will be welcomed with open arms. The event will be a fantastic opportunity to reunite the industry and enable members of the security sector to grow their networks, as well as reunite with connections they haven’t seen in years. Security Essen will take place from September 20 to September 23 at Messe Essen, Germany. The wide exhibition spans over eight halls of the Messe Essen, focusing on the range of products and services presented is on innovations in the field of electronic and mechanical security technology, as well as cyber security, services and fire protection. The last event in 2018 attracted more than 36,000 professional visitors, predominantly experts from the industry, installers and participants from the security sector, with a significant interest in new products and businesses, with a strong willingness to invest. After the pandemic, the security industry is booming. Whether it’s technical high-end solutions or highly professional services, almost all sectors reported an increase in turnover last year. “These are the best preconditions for Security Essen 2022”, Oliver P. Kuhrt, CEO of Messe Essen says. “We offer the industry a top-class platform to present new solutions compactly and efficiently to decision-makers, buyers and other experts.” Special guests It has recently been announced that the UN Delegation will be in attendance of Security Essen. The representatives attending will present the UN’s procurement system, as well as discover new advancements in the security market, with the possibility of investing in new technology. Through its procurement system, it purchased goods and services with a total value of 22.3 billion US dollars in 2020 alone. 461 million of this was in the categories of public policy and security services and equipment. Taking place over the three days, there will be a seminar entitled “How to business with the UN” on the programme, allowing companies to get to know the procurement structures in the UN, and be given the opportunity to network with the representatives. There will also be a roundtable with industry experts and the opportunity for one-on-one meetings with the UN representatives. Day of training and further education The first day of the event will see a day of training and further education being held. Trainees, students and those in the industry who wish to polish their skills can attend lectures, get the opportunity to network with those in the industry and the day will conclude with an award ceremony, awarding the best trainees of the day. For more news updates, check out our June issue here. Media contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922

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Warehousing worries

Exclusives / Ghyslaine Cordrey

Security Buyer looks at the best ways to proactively protect warehouses, whether it be for workplace safety and efficiency or malicious attack Over the past few years, the multiple disruptions to the logistics industry have shown just how important it is to mitigate risk wherever possible. While some political disturbances are unavoidable, there are other areas where proactive measures can significantly impact. One of these is in the approach to safety and security. This article looks at how companies can keep safety and security threats at an absolute minimum, from preventing loading accidents to closely monitoring warehouse assets and safety.. Loading safety A significant but easily preventable cause of damaged goods in the logistics process lies in unsafe and inefficient loading processes. Using a well-designed system from an industry leader such as Joloda, to load and unload goods from vehicles can save time and help prevent unnecessary accidents. Depending on the product being transported, either a slipchain loading system, moving floor loading system or trailerskate loading system might be appropriate. Security Logistics security is another area that requires an effective and targeted approach. That approach will depend on multiple factors, such as where loads are being transported and what the load is. No matter the load, warehouses need to be constantly surveilled in an area that’s secured by a perimeter such as a high fence or wall. Warehouses also need to be appropriate environments for the goods being stored; generally, this means a dry, well-ventilated space, unless it’s for highly durable industrial products. For most security concerns, it’s best to get the advice of a security consultant with experience working in the logistics industry. Proactive monitoring As the events of the past few years have shown, it’s not enough to be reactive to events as they happen. The businesses which have thrived of late are the ones that were able to predict and proactively approach the diverse array of security and safety issues that have been thrown up. From supply chain bottlenecks to closing borders, ensure that your logistics coordinators constantly monitor potential threats to the logistics process and come up with solutions to safeguard before it’s too late. For example, Hanwha Techwin recently implemented a video monitoring system in a Logistics Centre in the UK: A major logistics centre based near the UK’s East Midlands Airport needed an efficient video surveillance system to monitor its operations, specifically an automated part of its warehouse that operates 24/7 to fulfil orders. The logistics company handles packages for contract customers including major retailers and is subject to strict service level agreements; so any downtime in its operations may incur significant penalties, damage its reputation, and impact customer loyalty in a competitive industry. The automated picking area handles approximately 90 parcels a minute and operates 24/7 so the cameras and video management system (VMS) selected needed to be reliable and easily supported remotely. The cameras also needed to be high definition, and highly accurate, due to the speed of the processing in the picking area. As a result, the logistics company turned to Zicam and Hanwha Techwin. For more news updates, check out our June issue here. Media contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922

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Into the Cloud – Bi3

Exclusives / Ghyslaine Cordrey

Charlie Walsh, Sales Executive, Bi3 What does ‘security’ mean to you? The term ‘security’ is rather broad and can fall into a multitude of divisions, such as financial, personal, physical, national and network. From my point of view I see security as implementing a feature in order to protect an asset. What made you want to work in the industry? If I am being honest it is something I had never really considered. However, once I had contact with Bi3 about a job interview I was very intrigued by what they had to offer. Now I am in the industry, it is going great and I am really enjoying my time here. If you could talk to your younger self, what would you say? The first thing I would say is to invest in Bitcoin or to stock up on petrol during lockdown! But if I was going to have an honest conversation with my younger self then I would probably reiterate the things my parents told me when I was growing up. This would be along the lines of to keep working hard and keep a positive attitude even in the face of adversity, as things will always work out in the end. A quote that always stuck with me was to ‘not count the days but make the days count’! Describe a funny thing that happened to you recently? I went on the sunbeds for the first time this summer to try and build a base tan up for my holiday, but I ended up being severely burnt for the next week and needing to apply lots of Aloe Vera!. For more news updates, check out our June issue here. Media contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922

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Mobile Tech Doubles Business for ComLink Security

Industry Sectors, UK News Desk / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

The latest field service management software has helped ComLink Fire and Security to become one of the fastest growing companies in Wales. By equipping engineers with rugged mobile devices that synchronise in real time with back-office software, ComLink’s business has been transformed with completely paperless working. Since introducing the cloud-based technology from BigChange, ComLink has seen its field service fleet double in size. The company has also seen turnover triple without the need for additional office resources. Based in Carmarthen, ComLink services mainly commercial customers within a one-hour catchment area in south and west Wales. Formed in 2017, the company specialises in the installation and service of fire alarms, security systems, HD CCTV and automatic gates. ComLink became the 22nd fastest growing company in Wales in 2021; a year earlier the company won the small business category at the West Wales Business Awards. ComLink started looking at systems back in 2019 realising that automation was going to be crucial for growth. A number of systems were reviewed with BigChange selected; implementation began in early 2020. BigChange is a job management platform that incorporates customer relationship management (CRM), job scheduling, live tracking, field resource management, job finance and business intelligence in one simple to use and easy to integrate platform. “BigChange has completely transformed our business having eliminated paperwork with a real-time system we can all access 24/7,” said Tom James, Director, ComLink Fire and Security. “BigChange provides the ultimate control with assurance that all work is being done – and done correctly as compliance is crucial in fire and security.” “In looking at the systems available BigChange was a clear winner. However, crucially we felt the company was forward-thinking, attentive and ambitious; they shared our values and that was important for what we knew would be a key business partnership. The transition from paper to digital turned out much easier than we expected and customer support has been excellent – everything we have asked for has been delivered.” James added. ComLink provides a 24/7 call out service and engineers are equipped with rugged tablets that replaced paper dockets with digital job reports. For engineers, the system is a big step up. As well as eliminating their paperwork it allows them to see what jobs are coming up and then access everything 24/7 which is particularly useful when on night call outs. “As the business grew we were losing track; parts were being lost, job’s were not being invoiced and generally we didn’t have the control we needed. BigChange changed all that and put us back in control. The system has allowed us to significantly improve our efficiency, productivity, compliance and management. We’ve doubled jobs per day without needing to increase office administrative resource. ComLink likes the fleet management capabilities offered via the BigChange app. The integrated telematics provides live ETA and an audit of arrival and departure time all linked to the particular job card. The app is also used for recording van inspections and with digital updates on defects and other issues, the system has improved fleet maintenance. The system also monitors driving behaviour to highlight poor driving such as excessive acceleration, braking and speeding. For more news updates and exclusive features, check out our Q2 issue here. Media contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922

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Mobile Tech Doubles Business for ComLink Security

Industry Sectors, News Desk / Ghyslaine Cordrey

The latest field service management software has helped ComLink Fire and Security to become one of the fastest growing companies in Wales. By equipping engineers with rugged mobile devices that synchronise in real time with back-office software, ComLink’s business has been transformed with completely paperless working. Since introducing the cloud-based technology from BigChange, ComLink has seen its field service fleet double in size. The company has also seen turnover triple without the need for additional office resources. Based in Carmarthen, ComLink services mainly commercial customers within a one-hour catchment area in south and west Wales. Formed in 2017, the company specialises in the installation and service of fire alarms, security systems, HD CCTV and automatic gates. ComLink became the 22nd fastest growing company in Wales in 2021; a year earlier the company won the small business category at the West Wales Business Awards. ComLink started looking at systems back in 2019 realising that automation was going to be crucial for growth. A number of systems were reviewed with BigChange selected; implementation began in early 2020. BigChange is a job management platform that incorporates customer relationship management (CRM), job scheduling, live tracking, field resource management, job finance and business intelligence in one simple to use and easy to integrate platform. “BigChange has completely transformed our business having eliminated paperwork with a real-time system we can all access 24/7,” said Tom James, Director, ComLink Fire and Security. “BigChange provides the ultimate control with assurance that all work is being done – and done correctly as compliance is crucial in fire and security.” “In looking at the systems available BigChange was a clear winner. However, crucially we felt the company was forward-thinking, attentive and ambitious; they shared our values and that was important for what we knew would be a key business partnership. The transition from paper to digital turned out much easier than we expected and customer support has been excellent – everything we have asked for has been delivered.” James added. ComLink provides a 24/7 call out service and engineers are equipped with rugged tablets that replaced paper dockets with digital job reports. For engineers, the system is a big step up. As well as eliminating their paperwork it allows them to see what jobs are coming up and then access everything 24/7 which is particularly useful when on night call outs. “As the business grew we were losing track; parts were being lost, job’s were not being invoiced and generally we didn’t have the control we needed. BigChange changed all that and put us back in control. The system has allowed us to significantly improve our efficiency, productivity, compliance and management. We’ve doubled jobs per day without needing to increase office administrative resource. ComLink likes the fleet management capabilities offered via the BigChange app. The integrated telematics provides live ETA and an audit of arrival and departure time all linked to the particular job card. The app is also used for recording van inspections and with digital updates on defects and other issues, the system has improved fleet maintenance. The system also monitors driving behaviour to highlight poor driving such as excessive acceleration, braking and speeding. For more news updates, check out our June issue here. Media contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922

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SICUREZZA 2023: Off to a flying start

Event News, News Desk / Ghyslaine Cordrey

Building on the success of its previous edition, which came to a close with 20,542 operators from 69 countries (alongside SMART BUILDING EXPO), SICUREZZA is ready to set off on its journey toward reopening its doors from the 15th to the 17th of November 2023 at Fiera Milano. Numerous companies have already confirmed their participation, and the focus of its 2023 project is being drafted in ongoing discussions with both them and industry associations. SICUREZZA is once again gearing up to make space for the many faces of the industry and to delve into current trends: digitisation, integrated systems and customised solutions as well as new skills and professionalism. Many leading brands have already registered to take part – 14 months before the event – representing all segments. A clear sign of their confidence in its format which stands out for its focus on technological innovation and integrated and intelligent solutions, proving to be highly representative of a market that is continuing to experience profound change and evolution today. ITALY: A GROWING MARKET According to recent reviews published by ANIE Sicurezza, in 2021 the Building Automation and Security sector in Italy will be back on track for aggregate growth in turnover after its substantial stability in 2020 when the effects of the pandemic interrupted its trajectory of expansion over previous years (+12.3% annual change in turnover at current values; +13.1% compared with pre-pandemic 2019 figures). These positive dynamics spanned all segments, although leading the recovery were fire prevention (+12.8%) and video surveillance (+18.2%), a sector that also expanded in the year of the pandemic when demand was driven by the need for the support of security technology against Covid-19.. Encouraging figures were seen in both the Italian domestic market (+13%), partly driven by investments in construction, and on the export front (+11%), owing to the recovery of exports to markets in the European Union (+20.4%), North America (+11.3%) and East Asia (+40.8%). In addition, ANIE Sicurezza estimates a trend of steady growth in 2022, albeit at a lower rate than 2021, given the worsening of difficulties in supply markets brought about by current geopolitical tensions. In this context of major change, SICUREZZA 2023 will once again prove to be a time for sharing innovations within the sector, offering professionals a unique opportunity to get up to date and compare notes, key to understanding technological progress underway today. INTERNATIONALISATION AIMS Meanwhile, with international travel resuming, the SICUREZZA Roadshow that talks to European professionals about the project and its key players has already taken off. After its first stopover in the United Kingdom, SICUREZZA will in fact be heading to Germany, France and Dubai to meet companies and operators at major industry events and continue its internationalisation process, which today sees it increasingly one of the leading events, particularly in Europe and the Mediterranean basin. The trade fair’s international network of companies, buyers, academic institutions and specialist media is an additional asset, and over the coming months dialogue and exchange will be encouraged with the aim of creating a project that meets market demands in line with its current evolution. For more news updates, check out our June issue here. Media contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922

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Securitas completes STANLEY Security and Healthcare acquisition

Industry Sectors, News Desk, Technology / Ghyslaine Cordrey

The highly anticipated acquisition of STANLEY Security and Healthcare accelerates Securitas’ transformation journey toward technology-based solutions and its ambition to position itself as an outstanding global security and safety partner that helps make the world a safer place. Securitas accelerates its transition toward technology-based solutions The company significantly strengthens its technology and expertise in key markets and the acquisition enables Securitas to become a stronger business partner to support its clients globally Together with STANLEY Security and Healthcare, Securitas will be able to provide a complementary offering across the security services value chain to seamlessly support its clients’ businesses The combined business will be called Securitas Technology Significant commercial synergy opportunities with 500 000 existing clients, in addition to new clients Approximately 50% of Securitas profit contribution is expected to be generated through higher-margin technology and solutions sales The acquisition supports Securitas’ strategy, adds resilience and creates a significant platform for innovation as the company has the ambition to drive and redefine the future of the security industry. On December 8, 2021, Securitas announced it had signed an agreement to acquire the Electronic Security Solutions business from Stanley Black & Decker Inc. (“STANLEY Security”). Following customary regulatory approvals, the acquisition is now complete, and the joint potential of the two businesses is unleashed. Securitas holds a strong position within the security services market today and has continuously built a robust platform within the technology and solutions area to meet the increasing demand for smarter, innovative, technology-based security solutions. Strategic acquisitions in recent years, combined with efficient business transformation programmes and the acquisition of STANLEY Security, enable Securitas’ ambition to emerge as an exceptional player in the security industry. The core of Securitas’ value proposition and growth strategy is a strong belief that the future of security is built on global presence, connected technology and intelligent use of data. By offering and combining these three assets with a holistic approach across the whole security services value chain, Securitas can position itself as an outstanding partner for its clients across the globe. “We see an increasing client demand to complement our guarding and consulting offering with technology-based solutions. As global challenges evolve rapidly, safety and security solutions are essential to helping organisations protect their people, safeguard their assets and optimise their operations. Together with STANLEY Security and Healthcare, we are able to drive and redefine the future of the security industry by providing a broad portfolio of integrated tech-enabled solutions that help our clients focus on managing their core business,” says Magnus Ahlqvist, President and CEO. For more news updates, check out our June issue here. Media contact Rebecca Morpeth Spayne, Editor, Security Portfolio Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 922

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