BSIA’s South East Business Crime Conference 2013 helps local businesses reduce risk of crime in Brighton

BSIA’s Conference saw over 22 exhibitors showcasing a wide range of security products and services

Delegates from all business backgrounds based in the South East of England enjoyed a successful and informative half-day conference and exhibition last week, hosted by the British Security Industry Association (BSIA) at Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club on 30th October 2013.

The South East Business Crime Conference saw over 130 delegates in attendance, with 22 exhibitors showcasing a wide range of security products and services to aid local businesses in reducing the risks of business crime.

As well as a comprehensive exhibition, attendees also had the opportunity to attend an informative seminar programme, which included presentations on the value of Police and business community partnerships in the fight against crime. The panel included Roy Smith, of New Scotland Yard, Nigel Liddell from the Brighton and Hove Business Crime Reduction Partnership, Charlie Newman, of event sponsor Littoralis, and Professor Martin Gill, from Perpetuity Research and Consultancy International.

Katy Bourne, Police and Crime Commissioner for Sussex, officially opened the event, emphasising the impact of business crime and her commitment to its reduction: “I know that the employment and wealth that business creates is the lifeblood for our communities here in Sussex; I also know that business crime should never be dismissed as low level, or victimless. Local shops are often located in the heart of housing estates or villages and an incident of theft or vandalism has the same impact as a crime against an individual in that area.

“I am determined that we should challenge this perception that business crime is victimless so that we  can influence first time offenders’ behaviour. I also believe that the future of policing is about partnership and prevention, so it is vital that local organisations and the Police work together to reduce business crime in order to create safe and secure business communities.”

Delegates in attendance were from a diverse range of organisations across the South East, including Waterstones Booksellers Ltd, Gloucestershire Constabulary, Lancing College, Eastbourne Business Crime Group, Bank of England, Eastbourne Arndale Centre, Sussex Police, Surrey Police and the University of Portsmouth.

100% of delegates who were surveyed about their experience at the event believed that the conference was a benefit to them, with a further 100% feeling that they were now better informed about the market place. 100% of respondents also rated the organisation of the event as either good or excellent.

Speaking about the value of the seminar line-up, Ann Swain, from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), commented: “The topics were very thought provoking and the FSB will be contacting some of the speakers to take the discussions forward.”

The event also proved a successful day for the exhibitors. Speaking positively about the day, Sue Jones from Littoralis said: “It was an excellent event and venue, and we made some extremely interesting and useful contacts.”