If growth is the number one mission of the government, then security is its first duty. The Government’s Plan for Change makes clear how security provides the stable foundations for growth, ensuring the UK remains responsive and resilient despite the pressures of a changing world.
That is why Security & Policing (S&P) is an unmissable event each year for UK Defence and Security Exports (UKDSE) who will be taking part again this year in the Gov Zone. Part of the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), UKDSE sits at the intersection of security and growth, supporting players across the industry to export their innovative products.
Head of UKDSE’s Security and Cyber Security team Tracy Buckingham explains why security exports are booming right now, how S&P champions innovation, and how the show gives UKDSE a unique opportunity to demystify the world of security exports with companies and connect industry with their next export opportunity.
What does the UKDSE security and cyber security team do?
The UKDSE Security and Cyber Security team supports UK businesses of all sizes and shapes to achieve export success. Our work spans across capabilities from first responders to protecting against cyber-attacks, major event security to securing sites of critical national infrastructure. Security and Policing is just one of many events where we meet UK security and cyber security companies.
We also work closely with Trade Associations to discover new UK businesses and introduce them to international opportunities. We work closely with DBT’s international network to highlight the strength of the UK’s security and cyber security offer to buyers in overseas governments and the private sector. Another way we help companies export is through our dedicated SME team (who you will probably meet at Security and Policing) and the bespoke online support provided by the Export Faculty.
Why are security exports on the up and up?
Security is about keeping our citizens safe at home and overseas. Modern buildings factor security considerations from the start and ‘secure by design’ means that both physical and cyber security are key factors in any new design – be it a building or a piece of technology. This holistic approach to security is a really important aspect of day-to-day life – just think about the cyber security implications of your smart fridge.
Why are UK security exports so successful right now?
The UK’s continued success in the global security market is not a surprise since the UK has an established physical and cyber security industrial base producing best in class solutions. Our security market is diverse with a variety of companies, with innovative SMEs creating a big proportion of the revenue. We see a real demand for UK solutions and not only do UK security exports make the world a safer place, they are contributing to economic growth. The total value of UK security exports was £11.0 billion in 2023 representing a 13 percent increase from 2022 in nominal prices.
How important are SMEs for security and cyber security exports?
The sector is predominantly led by SMEs and their highly innovative solutions so it is vital that UKDSE helps stimulate their success for the overall success of the sector.
Security and Policing has a history of supporting innovative SMEs with the innovation awards an excellent example. It’s really good to see previous winners go on to export success and to help their products find new markets.
What will UKDSE be doing at Security and Policing?
UKDSE will be undertaking a range of activities at the show including hosting international delegations and buyers. We collaborate closely with companies to set up opportunities for them to engage with potential buyers and showcase their products and services to overseas delegations. S&P is a great catalyst for new UK exports.
UKDSE will be out in force at S&P, getting out and about at the show, talking to everyone there and creating networking moments. We will also have our own stand in the Gov Zone which gives us a great way to demonstrate our integrated offer to UK industry as our work naturally cuts across different Government departments. I’m also looking forward to supporting the Home Office with the programmes for their ministers and shining the spotlight on UK industry.
What are you looking forward to at Security and Policing 2025?
I’m really excited to experience the Safer Streets immersive exhibition and see crucial security issues brought to life. Not only am I looking forward to finding out the winners of the innovation awards but I’m eager to see what new products will be launched this year. It’s always lovely to catch up with colleagues from across Government and industry at Security and Policing but it’s also a great way to meet new companies at the start of their exporting journey.
How to find us/get in touch?
You can find and talk to us at the Gov Zone on stand XXXX during Security and Policing. You can also find out more about us and the support we provide on our website: gov.uk/dbt-ukdse. Whatever stage they are at on their export journey, I really encourage SMEs to register with the Export Faculty our bespoke online trailing tool providing tailored advice to SMEs so we can help you find your next success.