So far, 2025 isn’t just another year for the UK security sector; it’s a turning point. We’re living through a period of complete transformation that will redefine how security is delivered, regulated, and perceived.
Martyn’s Law: A Landmark in Public Safety
The introduction of Martyn’s Law, officially known as the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025, is reshaping public safety. Venues with a capacity of 200 or more people must now implement proportionate security measures to protect against terrorist attacks. This legislation is a direct response to the Manchester Arena tragedy and years of campaigning by Figen Murray, whose efforts have reshaped national security policy. The Security Industry Authority (SIA) has been confirmed as the regulator for Martyn’s Law, expanding its remit beyond licensing security personnel to overseeing compliance at public premises and events. I would describe this as a watershed moment for the industry.
Mandatory Licensing and Industry Standards
For years, the private security sector has operated in a fragmented regulatory environment. That’s changing. Mandatory licensing for security companies is now firmly on the horizon, alongside a strategic review of licence-linked qualifications. The SIA’s 2025/26 business plan prioritises driving criminality and malpractice out of the industry, strengthening safeguards, and embracing digital transformation to improve compliance and efficiency.
A Growing Retail Crime Crisis
Security isn’t just about terrorism; it’s about everyday safety. Retail crime has reached record highs, with over 20 million theft incidents reported last year, costing businesses £2.2 billion. Violence and abuse against retail staff have surged to more than 2,000 incidents per day, including 70 weapon-related attacks daily. Retailers have invested £1.8 billion in crime prevention measures, from CCTV to body-worn cameras, but the challenge persists. The government’s new Crime and Policing Bill introduces a standalone offence for assaulting retail workers (a long-overdue step to protect those on the front line, if you ask me).
Cybersecurity
Physical security is only half the story. With AI-driven threats, deepfake technology, and ransomware attacks on the rise, the forthcoming Cyber Security and Resilience Bill will impose new obligations on businesses to safeguard digital infrastructure. Organisations must integrate cyber and physical security strategies to stay ahead of evolving risks.
Economic Impact and Market Growth
The UK security and resilience sector now contributes £24 billion in turnover, employs over 148,000 people, and is projected to grow steadily at a 6.2% CAGR through 2030. Demand for advanced technologies, AI, IoT, biometrics, and integrated security solutions is accelerating, driven by smart city initiatives and critical infrastructure protection.
What Does This Mean for Security Professionals?
It means the game has changed. Compliance is no longer optional. Customer service is as critical as deterrence. Cybersecurity is as vital as physical presence. And collaboration across sectors, disciplines, and technologies is the new norm.
Feedback From Security Leaders
In my discussions with security professionals, I am seeing a consensus on the appropriate first steps forward, and they can be defined within three broad pillars:
- Investing in training to equip teams with skills in both physical and digital threats.
- Embrace innovations like AI, cloud platforms, and integrated systems, which are no longer just “nice to have” but imperative.
- Collaborate with law enforcement, tech providers, and clients to build holistic security strategies.
Security is about so much more than locks and cameras; it has evolved dramatically, and we find ourselves in a period of immense transformation driven by technology and the modern world. Change can seem daunting, but it’s also an opportunity to raise standards, enhance resilience, and redefine what security means in our modern society.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
I’m Rob Cullum, part of the leadership team at MRG, where I specialise in connecting top talent with leading organisations in the UK security sector. Thank you to the security professionals who have spoken with me and helped me shape this blog. Your insights have been very valuable. If you’d like to discuss the themes here, are looking to advance your security career or need expert support with recruitment, let’s talk.
Contact Rob Cullum to learn more about UK security recruitment.