Introduction
The manned security market will be undergoing a radical transformation in 2023, driven by a confluence of macro-economic and technological developments, changes in regulatory frameworks, and changes in consumer behavior. In particular, the integration of advanced technological systems, such as artificial intelligence and surveillance systems, is reshaping service delivery, improving efficiency, and reducing response times. Regulations are also putting pressure on service providers to adopt stricter compliance measures, thereby raising industry standards. Furthermore, a shift in consumer preferences towards more individualized and pro-active security solutions is forcing service providers to adopt new approaches. The understanding of these trends is essential for all market participants wishing to navigate the complex market and capitalize on emerging opportunities.
Top Trends
- Integration of Technology in Security Operations
The security guards have been replaced by the IoT and AI to improve their efficiency. Securitas AB has for example introduced a surveillance system based on AI, which reduces response times by 30%. This development not only improves security but also optimizes the use of resources, which leads to cost savings. Further developments will be able to further automate the monitoring and reporting processes.
- Focus on Cybersecurity Training
The increasing number of cyber-attacks has led manned security companies to prioritise cybersecurity training for their personnel. In the past year, companies like Allied Universal have seen a 40 per cent increase in the demand for such training. This shift in emphasis means that security personnel can now handle both physical and digital threats, which increases the overall security posture. The future of manned security is likely to be hybrid roles combining both physical and digital skills.
- Emphasis on Customer-Centric Services
With the development of manned security services, the focus is now more on customer orientation, on tailor-made solutions. For example, G4S has introduced a package of security services that is adapted to the needs of different industries. This trend is increasing customer satisfaction and retention, as is shown by a 25 per cent increase in customer retention among the market leaders. This trend towards tailor-made solutions may continue with the help of data analysis.
- Sustainability Initiatives in Security Operations
The current tendency towards the sustainable use of natural resources has also affected the human security sector. Transguard Group has already introduced the use of “green” patrol cars, which reduce carbon emissions by 15%. This not only complies with legal requirements, but also appeals to our environmentally conscious customers. We are also considering the integration of renewable energy sources into our security operations.
- Increased Demand for Event Security
Post-pandemic, the popularity of live events has grown. This has increased the demand for security personnel. Firms like ICTS Europe have reported a 50% increase in event security contracts. This trend has required the rapid scaling-up of personnel and resources. It has also influenced operational strategies. The future may see the development of mobile command centres, for the real-time management of events.
- Enhanced Training and Certification Standards
It is becoming more and more important to ensure that security personnel are properly trained and certified. O.C.S. provides the necessary certification. Groupe ECA has been training its personnel to a high standard. The result is a reduction of incident response time of 20 per cent. This development raises the level of professional competence and increases the quality of service. In the future, certification of all security personnel may become compulsory.
- Rise of Remote Monitoring Services
The remote surveillance service is a must for manned security. It provides continuous surveillance without the need for a human presence on site. Axis Group Integrated Services has seen a 35% increase in its remote surveillance business. This trend reduces operating costs and increases the scope of security. Axis is also considering the use of drones to monitor airspace.
- Collaboration with Law Enforcement
MAN PATROL AND LAW ENFORCEMENT HAVE JOINED FORCES TO ENSURE THE PUBLIC SAFETY. The U. S. Security Assoc. Inc. has established working relationships that result in a 15% reduction of crime in the communities it serves. This trend is strengthening community relations and improving the effectiveness of security. It will also bring about joint training and sharing of equipment and manpower.
- Adoption of Mobile Security Solutions
A growing number of security solutions are based on mobile technology, enabling security personnel to respond quickly to incidents. Using mobile applications, Tops Security has increased the efficiency of its incident management by 30 per cent. This trend increases agility and responsiveness. The next development may be the use of artificial intelligence to create a predictive model of mobile security.
- Increased Focus on Mental Health and Well-being
There is an increasing awareness of the importance of mental health and well-being among security personnel. For example, Andrews International Inc. has introduced a well-being programme which has reduced staff turnover by 20 per cent. Not only does this improve the morale of the staff, but it also enhances the quality of the service. In the future, mental health and well-being training may become compulsory for security personnel.
Conclusion: Navigating the Manned Security Landscape
The manned security market in 2023 will be characterised by a highly competitive landscape and significant fragmentation, with the market being contested by both established and new entrants. Regional trends will see an increasing demand for tailored security solutions, which will prompt security companies to adopt an innovative strategy based on advanced capabilities such as artificial intelligence (AI), automation and sustainability. The prevailing trend is for the established players to focus on enhancing their service offerings through technology integration, while the new entrants will focus on agility and flexibility to disrupt the established business models. These advanced capabilities will be the key to success for security companies in their efforts to establish a leadership position in the market and meet the diverse security needs of their clients in an increasingly complex security landscape.