Today ADS launched the 2016 Security Sector Outlook. The report provides the facts and figures to help describe the UK security industry and its notable contribution to the British economy.
SECURING RAPID GROWTH
The UK’s security industry plays a vital role in supporting Britain’s national security and prosperity – and in 2015 alone, turnover in the sector increased by 5 per cent £9.1 billion, with security exports growing to £4 billion. Growth in the sector has been driven by export opportunities in the EU, North America, and the Middle East.
The security industry is supporting more than 121,000 high value jobs, saw direct employment rise by over 5,000 during the year, and supports more than 2,100 apprentices.
While recent political developments have brought a degree of uncertainty to future export relations, the continued good news from the 2016 report is that over half of UK security companies are expecting to grow by 10% or more in the next 12 months.
LOOKING BACK AND AHEAD
Looking back on 2016, a great deal has been achieved in the security and resilience sector – both in ADS and in the wider community. Among numerous other activities, ADS has worked hand-in-hand with government and industry to help shape the future policy landscape of the sector. On this, 2016 has been a busy year for government policy, with the release of the National Cyber Security Strategy, the Investigatory Powers Bill receiving Royal Assent, and the refreshed version of CONTEST nearing its release – now expected early in the New Year. ADS has had a role in all of these, as well as many more other government strategies, papers, documents, and consultations.
In 2017 the hard work will continue, ADS will redouble collaborative efforts with government on the implementation of the Strategic Defence and Security Review (SDSR) and National Security Strategy, as well as helping to formulate forthcoming policy and strategy, utilising our member’s sectoral expertise.
