BSIA along with Greater Manchester Police provides security advice at annual Manchester Security 2014

Delegates were given the opportunity to attend a comprehensive seminar with a panel of expert speakers

Police and security industry experts were on hand to provide valuable security advice to North-West based businesses last week, as the annual Manchester Security conference and exhibition returned to the city for the twentieth consecutive year.

Organised by the British Security Industry Association (BSIA) in partnership with Greater Manchester Police and the Manchester City Centre Crime Prevention Panel, the event informed businesses based in the North West about current police initiatives as well as the various security solutions available to help them tackle issues of crime and anti-social behaviour.

This year’s conference and exhibition attracted well over 200 delegates, including representatives of well-known city-centre retailers, banks and local public sector organisations. On hand to showcase the very latest in security services was a record number of exhibitors, who provided delegates with hands-on experience of solutions ranging from electronic security measures to people-based guarding services.

Delegates were also given the opportunity to attend a comprehensive seminar with a panel of expert speakers, each sharing their own expertise on security issues faced by city-centre businesses. This year’s panel included Tony Lloyd, Police and Crime Commissioner for Greater Manchester, who discussed the role of the police working with partners to build safer communities. Chief Superintendent Nick Adderley, of Greater Manchester Police, commented on policing in Manchester City Centre, while Maxine Fraser, National Operations Director for Retailers Against Crime addressed the topic of partnership working to reduce crime against the retail sector.

Geoff Zeidler, Chairman of the British Security Industry Association, opened the event alongside Tony Morton, Chairman of Manchester City Centre Crime Prevention Panel and Great Manchester Police Assistant Chief Constable, Garry Shewan.

Commenting on the event, BSIA Chief Executive, James Kelly, said: “Whether it be a major event in the city centre, or an ordinary Saturday afternoon, it is absolutely essential that businesses are prepared for any security challenges that they may face.

“The Manchester Security event provides a fantastic opportunity for local businesses to learn about the latest security products and services, whilst hearing about the great work that the Greater Manchester Police do for the city. Now celebrating its twentieth year, the event continues to promote partnership working between local businesses, police and the UK’s private security sector, and the BSIA is proud to contribute to the event’s continued success.

“By working together and sharing best practice advice, we can secure a positive and safe future for local businesses throughout 2014 and beyond.”