Abbey Petkar

Magenta Security MD Abbey Petkar met with SIA Chief Executive Ian Todd and Tony Holyland (SIA Head of Quality & Standards) at Magenta HQ last month to discuss concerns about the lack of business licenses in the security industry. They also considered other topics focused on making the security industry more professional and more robust in the face of unscrupulous players in the market. This included how the ACS could be made more available to 80% of the industry, which represents approximately 40% of license holders, yet to join the voluntary scheme. “It was obvious from the outset that Ian understood the issues the security industry faces and that Ian and Tony want to do more for the Industry. Ian is keen to push through changes that would enhance the whole of the security market, however, he needs to convince the Home Office that the changes are needed; and more importantly wanted by stakeholders across the whole of the security sector,” comments Abbey Petkar, managing director of Magenta Security. Business licences The conversation also considered the importance of paying guards a decent living wage – to avoid modern-day slavery “In response to the objections I have raised over the SIA’s handling of business licensing they made it clear that it is still something they wish to explore and achieve but the political landscape means it is currently unfeasible, however, they will continue to lobby the Home Office as and when appropriate.” Despite not being able to push forward with business licensing, the SIA representatives did, however, confirm their desire to approach the challenge from a different angle as explained further by Abbey. “Though they are struggling in terms of business licenses, the SIA is focusing instead on the end clients, educating them on the types of security companies they should consider using to ensure they avoid cowboy firms with poor standards across a number of areas.” Commitment to positive change The conversation also considered the importance of paying guards a decent living wage – to avoid modern-day slavery; customer service levels and environmental issues, all of which are fundamental to Magenta’s business practices and ethos. It was agreed that Tony Holyland would attend the next SBN (Small Business Network) meeting at Abbey’s invitation. Tony commented that he believes that of all the organizations set up to help the security industry understand the implementation of the Security Act, the SBN is the only one to remain in existence and that he looked forward to attending the meeting. Abbey concludes: “The meeting provides a real foundation for future dialog and commitment to positive change. SIA has a lot of work to do. However, under the leadership of Ian Todd, I am convinced that the outlook for the future of the industry is in safe hands.”

A combination of uncertainty over Brexit negotiations and recent cut backs in other areas of police funding has highlighted an opportunity for the private security industry to support public services. “Brexit is putting an incredible strain on resources of all types across the UK, including the police force, who are preparing contingencies for a host of challenges ahead of March 29. When combined with the selling off of police assets and the reduction in officers on the street it makes life very difficult when it comes to the prevention of criminal activity,” comments Abbey Petkar, managing director of Magenta Security. “I have incredible respect for the police. They are doing a tough job under difficult circumstances and deserve our support.” Partnership With The Police To Prevent Crime The security industry is incredibly diverse and already working across a host of services to prevent crime"Abbey believes that via current contracts and private initiatives, security companies across the UK can deliver for clients while partnering the police to highlight and, where possible, stop criminal activity. “The security industry is incredibly diverse and already working across a host of services to prevent crime. We already support public services by filling gaps and spotting vulnerabilities that opportunists could exploit. A partnership-based relationship with the police will do nothing but improve this,” continues Abbey. “For those of us carrying the proper certification, there is even the opportunity to directly support public services, supplementing their workforce where needed.” Ultimately, Abbey believes there is a significant opportunity for the private sector to support public services and give back to the wider community. This is even truer as the SIA works to professionalise and improve the quality of output from across the sector. Public safety should, in Abbey’s opinion, be the responsibility of all, not just the few hardworking police officers.

Following the latest budget, which highlighted increased funding for terrorism prevention despite recent cut backs in other areas of police funding, the Small Business Network (SBN) of professional security companies has highlighted an opportunity for the private security industry to support public services. “Whilst the budget saw extra money for the prevention of terrorism, the selling off of other police assets and the reduction in officers on the street has made life difficult when it comes to the prevention of other criminal activity,” comments Abbey Petkar, spokesperson for the SBN and managing director of Magenta Security. Stop Criminal Behavior “The police are doing a fantastic job with limited resources and we are perfectly placed to support them.” Through client contracts already in existence, security companies across the UK can deliver for their clients whilst working in partnership with local police forces to spot and stop criminal behavior.  Whether it be a CCTV supplier, alarm company or manned guards, the industry is already working to prevent criminal activity" “Whether it be a CCTV supplier, alarm company or manned guards, the industry is already working to prevent criminal activity. We are on the look-out for vulnerabilities in the community that could affect clients as well as opportunists looking to make the most of any situation. A closer working relationship with the police can only improve this,” continues Abbey. Support Public Services “In fact, there is even an opportunity for those companies who have been properly certified to undertake work on behalf of the police, supplementing their forces and needs as appropriate.” Ultimately, the SBN believes the current challenges faced by police forces across the country are an opportunity for the security sector. The SIA’s ongoing desire to improve quality in the sector means the companies exist with the requisite skills and oversight to support public services in a professional and cohesive way. The SBN fundamentally believes that public security should not just be the responsibility of the police, instead everyone should do their part, working together to ensure safety for all.

Magenta Security Services believes it is vital that the industry engage with the Security Industry Authority (SIA) to develop the next generation of licensing qualifications. This follows the launch of a month-long consultation by the SIA which began on the 26th September. The consultation hopes to re-establish a suitable framework and potential new content for the licensing qualifications of the future. The SIA has invited the private security industry to share its views, deeming it ‘essential’ for guaranteeing the new specifications are fit-for-purpose.  Countless Industry Reforms Abbey Petkar, MD at Magenta and long-standing SIA-licensing advocate, has strongly welcomed this industry-wide opportunity to contribute. He said “It is vital that everyone from industry leaders to newcomers offer their experiences to the SIA during its review process. As an advocate for mandatory, industry-wide licensing, I naturally believe in the need for an effective and valid licensing process. This consultation is the perfect way to make sure these qualifications, which many work so hard for, stay relevant via the provision of input from both individuals and businesses in our sector.” Petkar has been a prominent driving-force behind countless industry reforms, most recently endorsing the need for an overhaul of the SIA’s current Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS) and its annual review. When the consultation is concluded, the SIA will provide select industry groups with the opportunity to analyze, review and amend its initial specifications, which will then be put to the public for further comment.

Following a parliamentary review, the SIA has recommended a systematic and transformational approach to its regulations - a result supported by the Small Business Network (SBN), which is a security industry body made up of leading private security firms. SIA Licensing After long advocating for industry-wide, mandatory SIA licensing as well as an overhaul of the current Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS), the SBN is delighted to see progress on both fronts. They vehemently believe buyers of security services have a need to check the quality of their suppliers and see it as part of their role to help make this possible for all. This is particularly true because failure to do so could result in situations that invalidate their insurance cover. “It is important to us that our industry is presented in the best light.” comments Abbey Petkar, managing director of Magenta Security Services and press officer for the SBN. “I believe we have been very vocal about challenges we’ve faced as an industry as well as possible solutions. It is a real coup to finally see some of our greatest concerns being both recognized and legitimised in this review.” “We want to congratulate the SIA on their decision to listen to the needs of the industry and respond accordingly. It makes us all proud to know that our association is standing up for our industry needs as they focus on protecting us as providers and our clients,” Abbey added. Public Safety and National Security Business licences should only be issued to companies who meet the voluntary revised Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS) standards Details about specific licensing recommendations included - all businesses offering security services whether operating under contract or operating in-house, where there is a risk to public protection, safeguarding and national security, should be subject to mandatory business licensing. Business licences should only be issued to companies who meet the voluntary revised Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS) standards. On the whole the review, in which the SBN was actively involved, recognized that the SIA performed to satisfactory standards as a regulator and should be retained as it plays a large role in the performance of the Private Security Industry (PSI). Other key recommendations included an increased focus on risk, introducing new shared standards, clearer market signaling and transparency as well as working towards a broader, more intimate industry partnership. Approved Contractor Scheme Standards It was also recognized that the ACS should be industry owned and administered in addition to being refreshed and strengthened It was also recognized that the ACS should be industry owned and administered in addition to being refreshed and strengthened. The SIA would be responsible for setting its standards and rigorously overseeing compliance. Abbey continues, “We have said, as our SBN history has proved, that working more closely with the SIA would be a relationship that benefits all parties, so it is satisfying to see a move towards this. We are not about to rest on our laurels though. We will continue to work towards creating a fairer, more reputable industry for all – inside and out.” Reviews like this are undergone by Arms-Length Bodies (ALB’s) every five years or so and consider a combination of views from the Private Security Industry (PSI) and other stakeholders. This review was undertaken in 2016 with the final results being published on June 7th, 2018.

Magenta Security Services, the first manned guarding company in the UK to be awarded ISO:14001 in 2001, has continued its focus on environmentally friendly and sustainable practice over the course of the last fifteen years. This now means that despite significant organizational growth, increased head count and additional need for resources, Magenta has reduced its energy usage by 75%. “This is not just a major milestone for us but also a demonstration to the rest of the business community. You can achieve great things if you put your mind to it. We only have one planet and businesses need to appreciate what is possible,” comments Abbey Petkar, managing director of Magenta Security. “My team has worked tirelessly over the last fifteen years to achieve and maintain ISO:14001. We have time and again sought new ways to reduce our energy consumption and be the industry frontrunner in our commitment to the environment.” Energy Reduction Systems Energy reduction systems at Magenta’s head office alone have seen the building’s energy efficiency rating go from an F to a C rating, while the use of hybrid and electric vehicles are ensuring the company is maximizing efficiency while on the road. Abbey further added, “From PIR lighting systems, solar panels and new heating systems to digitization and recycling, we are committed to the environment at every level of the business. We are still looking for ways to improve the systems we have. Reducing energy usage and increasing efficiency is a long-term process. So far, we have achieved 75%, one day that will be 90% and maybe even more. As technology improves, so can we and I look forward to seeing these figures improve year on year in line with the latest trends and opportunities.”

Magenta’s ongoing training program forms part of its customer care initiative Magenta Security Services has worked with 97% of its clients for more than three years, a figure it puts down to its customer care initiatives. Magenta prides itself on the quality of services it offers and the company achieves this by offering clients tailor made security packages which meet their individual requirements. This is backed up by a strong service based ethos. Customer Care Initiatives The company’s ongoing training program also forms part of its customer care initiative allowing it to achieve best practice and reach its customer care objectives. To demonstrate Magenta’s commitment to customer care, it has a money back guarantee, and to date, no customer has taken the company up on this. Meeting Client Requirements Magenta’s Managing Director Abbey Petkar commented, “Customer care is at the core of our business strategy. We value each assignment on its own merits and our services are based on the customers’ requirements, not a one size fits all basis. By understanding the customer’s requirements from the beginning, we can deliver the superior service and create long term relationships.” “Monthly meetings with clients ensure that performance indicators are assessed and reviewed on a regular basis. This allows us to ensure that customer requirements are being taken care of and staff are delivering the best possible service. If it was not for the close working relationships, we have with customers we would not be able to act efficiently when requests are made.” Whitepaper On Security Key Topics Petkar has also written a whitepaper providing businesses with all the information they need on working with security companies, which has been well received by customers and the wider business community. He adds, “The whitepaper provides a check list of key topics companies should think about when looking at appointing a security provider. It is an informative guide that sheds light on how to separate legitimate operators from the cowboys with the aim of giving businesses the insight they need in order to make an informed decision. The fact that people are still coming to us and requesting a copy shows how important it is to have such information.”

As a part of the training initiative, 100 of the company’s staff have achieved professional qualifications Over the last 12 months, Magenta Security Services has invested £40,000 in training initiatives for its staff. Training Courses As a result of this investment, 100 of the company’s staff have achieved professional qualifications. The program includes the introduction of a new online training program which allows staff to study in their own time, or during their time at work. Courses undertaken include Conflict Resolution, Customer Care and Customer Service as well as Safeguard training. Managing Director Abbey Petkar comments: “We see our employees as our biggest asset so we focus on training so they become well rounded individuals. Our program goes beyond traditional security training, and is based on an individual’s requirements—this way they receive training relevant to their job.” Creating Unique Security Solution “On top of this, we also consult with clients to see if there is any additional training they would like security guards to receive. By involving them in the process, it allows us to create a security solution which is unique to them and means they have access to staff with the correct training for the project. Our on-going commitment to training ensures Magenta maintains its reputation for providing customers with the highest level of service and allows us to achieve best practice in everything we do.” Magenta Security has its head office in Hounslow, with operations in Swindon, Birmingham, Manchester and Kent. As well as security officers, mobile patrols, and electronic surveillance, partnerships with external suppliers means Magenta can provide a variety of additional services to clients including luxury car hire, cleaning, and housekeeping.

Magenta installed solar panels on the roof of the building that generates 40% of the electricity it needs Magenta Security Services has once again been recognized for its environmental initiatives, collecting Best Green Business Award at the recent Hounslow Business Awards. The award was given for Magenta’s green initiatives which have helped the company reduce its impact on the environment. Magenta Security is considered one of the most environmentally friendly companies in the security industry, and wider business community in its local area. It was the first manned guarding company in Europe to be awarded certification to ISO 14001:2004 and was the first security company in the UK to become carbon neutral. Several Environmental Initiatives The company has launched several environmental initiatives including the installation of environmentally friendly lighting systems, environmentally friendly carpets and the creation of a digital systems for a paperless office. The most significant investment is the installation of solar panels on the roof of the building that allow Magenta to generate 40% of the electricity it needs. At the awards, which were held on Thursday, October 12, at Hilton Syon Park, Magenta was also highly commended for Customer Service while Managing Director Abbey Petkar was highly commended in the Entrepreneur of the Year category. Abbey Petkar commented: “Winning this award is recognition that our commitment to best environmental practices goes beyond the levels expected businesses. Sustainability and environmental issues are increasingly important to our clients, and much of our success in winning new business can be attributed to our commitment to meeting environmentally friendly standards. We’ve always taken leading steps to improve our own green policies and we will continue to take further steps to reduce our impact on the environment.” Hounslow Business Awards "Winning this award is recognition that our commitment to best environmental practices goes beyond the levels expected businesses" The Hounslow Business Awards has been developed and organized by Hounslow Chamber of Commerce to reward and celebrate dynamic and innovative businesses in the London Borough of Hounslow. Magenta is also a finalist in the up and coming Security and Fire Excellence Awards for Corporate Social Responsibility, Customer Care and Security Consultancy of the Year. Magenta is one of the fastest growing security companies in the country, providing a wide range of bespoke security solutions. As well as security officers, mobile patrols, and electronic surveillance, partnerships with external suppliers means Magenta can provide a variety of additional services to clients including luxury car hire and housekeeping.

Employees of Magenta Security benefit from full training on joining the company Zero-hours contracts allow employers to hire staff with no guarantee of work. This effectively means employees work only when they are needed by employers, often at short notice with pay depending on how many hours they work. Stricter Action Despite issuing a previous warning that organizations who employ the services of security companies need to do further checks on working conditions for staff, Managing Director Abbey Petkar believes not enough is being done. He believes the practice is putting both security guards and customers at risk. “The current situation allows anyone to set up a security firm,” comments Magenta Security’s Managing Director Abbey Petkar. “All they need is a couple of guards with SIA licenses. These guards are usually self-employed and on zero contract hours, which is where the problem lies and is something that needs to be addressed.” Unethical Practices For Employees “Unlike full-time employees, security guards on zero hours are paid minimum wage and in some instances less than minimum wage, pay no national insurance and don’t get any benefits such as holiday or sick pay. And they have no support from a control room and no back-up if they need it. And the situation gets even more serious for the customer, who may not be aware of the consequences until it is too late. If anything happens to one of these self-employed security guards on site there will be no protection, no guarantees and no insurance cover. The customer would be held accountable. And it would just take one big claim to tarnish the whole industry for years to come.” Employees of Magenta Security benefit from full training on joining the company and are recruited knowing that they will receive the majority of the hourly charge rate negotiated. This policy is in place due to Magenta’s belief that quality employment means a better service for their clients and customers. Secure And Quality Employment Abbey adds: “We are proud to say that Magenta has no zero-hours contractors on its books nor will we in the future. If you are able to provide employees with secure and quality employment, then the likelihood is that you will get more from your workforce. Zero-hours contracts do not allow employees to build decent careers for themselves and should be condemned.” Magenta Security has its head office in Hounslow, with operations in Swindon, Birmingham, Manchester and Kent. As well as security officers, mobile patrols and electronic surveillance, partnerships with external suppliers means Magenta can provide a variety of additional services to clients including luxury car hire, cleaning and housekeeping. Save

Magenta has started working with a number of new organizations to provide security services & extend contracts Magenta Security, one of the UK’s fastest growing private security firms, has strengthened its security guarding team on the back of a series of new business wins.  Increasing Demand For Security Guarding Services In recent months, Magenta has started working with a number of new organizations to provide security services, as well as extending contracts with existing clients. As a result, it has strengthened its team by employing an additional 35 security guards. The new recruits will benefit from full training and a raft of employee benefits as Magenta believes that providing quality employment means a better service for its clients. Managing Director Abbey Petkar explains: “Our success at winning new business has been attributed to our track record of top quality security guarding services. It’s a strategy which is working and as a result sales have grown substantially in the last year. In order to continue meeting our clients requirements and providing them with the best possible service, we have strengthened our security guarding team. Our employees are our assets and we provide them with a secure working environment. I believe if you put quality in, you’ll get quality coming out in everything you do. And this is certainly beneficial for all of our clients.” Magenta Security has its head office in Hounslow, with operations in Swindon, Birmingham, Manchester and Kent. As well as security officers, mobile patrols and electronic surveillance, partnerships with external suppliers means Magenta can provide a variety of additional services to clients including luxury car hire, cleaning and housekeeping.

Magenta's new security guard recruits will benefit from full training and a raft of employee benefits Magenta Security, one of the UK’s fastest growing private security firms, has strengthened its security guarding team on the back of a series of new business wins. Expanding Security Team In recent months, Magenta has started working with a number of new organizations to provide security services, as well as extending contracts with existing clients. As a result, it has strengthened its team by employing an additional 35 security guards. The new recruits will benefit from full training and a raft of employee benefits as Magenta believes that providing quality employment means a better service for its clients. Top Quality Security Guarding Services Managing Director Abbey Petkar explains: “Our success at winning new business has been attributed to our track record of top quality security guarding services. It’s a strategy which is working and as a result sales have grown substantially in the last year. In order to continue meeting our clients' requirements and providing them with the best possible service, we have strengthened our security guarding team. Our employees are our assets and we provide them with a secure working environment. I believe if you put quality in, you’ll get quality coming out in everything you do. And this is certainly beneficial for all of our clients.” Magenta Security has its head office in Hounslow, with operations in Swindon, Birmingham, Manchester and Kent. As well as security officers, mobile patrols and electronic surveillance, partnerships with external suppliers means Magenta can provide a variety of additional services to clients including luxury car hire, cleaning and housekeeping.

Magenta has announced that three longstanding clients have recently resigned contracts As one of the leading private security firms, Magenta Security Services has built a strong reputation based on creating long term partnerships with its clients. Understanding Client Requirements To demonstrate the strength of the partnerships, the security company has announced that three longstanding clients have recently resigned contracts. The Royal Parks has been working with Magenta since 2007, The Royal College of Ophthalmologists has been working with Magenta for three years and TSL Contact has been working with Magenta for four years. The new contracts will see them continue to work with Magenta Security for the foreseeable future. Managing Director Abbey Petkar comments: “Magenta has a clear strategy of working in partnership with clients and getting to know their individual security needs. This enables us to put together a bespoke package which meets their security requirements, rather than adopting a ‘one size fits all’ approach. By understanding a client’s needs from the beginning, Magenta can deliver the superior service and as a result we are able to build long term relationships with our clients. If it wasn’t for the close working relationship we have with clients and suppliers, we wouldn’t be able to act efficiently when requests are made.  “Magenta’s client retention remains one of the highest in the industry with more than 97% of clients remaining with the company for at least three years.  Over the last three years, Magenta has grown 20% year on year and this has been based on the company growing organically – by winning contracts for the operation of further sites for existing customers directly from the partnerships we have created.”   Magenta Security has its head office in Hounslow, with operations in Swindon, Birmingham, Manchester and Kent.

Magenta Security was chosen due to its environmental credentials, CSR policies and dedication to security licensing Magenta Security has once again won the security contract for The Royal Parks, extending the successful relationship and retaining the high quality services the leading security provider offers. The leading security services company was first awarded the contract to provide guarding solutions to the Parks by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) in 2007, and then again in 2009, 2011 and 2013. Security Operations After an extensive tender process that reviewed all areas of the business, Magenta Security was chosen due to its environmental credentials, CSR policies, dedication to security licensing and its reputation for providing high quality services to the industry. Abbey Petkar, Magenta’s Managing Director, comments: “Providing security services to the Royal Parks is a true demonstration of our focus on customer service and delivery. We’re committed to offering top quality solutions and our approach is consumer oriented – we want to make sure every person who comes to the Parks stays safe at all times. To achieve this we work in partnership with the Park’s management, and the Metropolitan Police, to ensure visitors get the best possible experience.” Magenta Security has its head office in Hounslow, with operations in Swindon, Birmingham, Manchester and Kent. As well as security officers, mobile patrols and electronic surveillance, partnerships with external suppliers means Magenta can provide a variety of additional services to clients covering the whole spectrum of soft services. Green Credentials The contract with The Royal Parks was awarded by the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport and will see Magenta looking after the nine parks until 2013. Part of the reason that Magenta's bid was successful was due to their green credentials. The company has been awarded certification to ISO 14001: 2004 (the international environmental management system standard recognized by the UK and other governments) and has also become a Carbon Neutral firm. The company’s achievements include a 50% reduction in energy costs and moving to a paperless office. Their most recent environmental investment is a fleet of electric cars. Magenta Security provides a first class service to all and is the fastest growing guarding company in the country.

Magenta Security will be present at major events held in the Royal Parks over the Summer As thousands of people flock to the London Royal Parks this summer, Magenta Security Services has warned people of the security risks they may face. Magenta Security Services provided security services to the Royal Parks for many years having first been awarded the contract to provide guarding solutions to the nine parks by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) in 2007, 2009 and 2011 and 2013. Guidelines To ensure personal security reaches high levels, Magenta has issued the following guidelines for people visiting the parks such as: Keep an eye on your children and know where they are at all times. Make sure your bags are attended or are close by if you’re playing games Keep valuables on your person or out of sight when playing games or away from your bags Don’t wave your phone around when walking alone in the evening or at night As the evenings get longer, don’t walk unaccompanied at dusk Magenta Security will be present at major events held in the Royal Parks over the Summer. Customer Orientated Approach Abbey Petkar, Magenta’s managing director, comments: “Providing security services to the Royal Parks is a true demonstration of our focus on customer service and customer delivery. We’re committed to offering top quality solutions and our approach is customer oriented – we want to make sure every person who comes to the parks this summer stays safe at all times. To achieve this we work in partnership with the park’s management, and the Metropolitan Police, to ensure visitors get the best possible experience.” Magenta Security has its head office in Hounslow, with operations in Swindon, Birmingham, Manchester and Kent. As well as security officers, mobile patrols and electronic surveillance, partnerships with external suppliers means Magenta can provide a variety of additional services to clients including luxury car hire, cleaning and housekeeping.

Magenta’s MD Abbey Petkar commented about the company’s no zero-hours contractors The use of zero-hours contracts within the security industry has been condemned by Hounslow-based Magenta Security. The subject of zero-hours contracts was a widely discussed topic in the recent UK General Election with Prime Minister David Cameron claiming there would be legislation to protect workers on these contracts. This legislation has since been described as ‘toothless’ by employment lawyers. Effective Managing Of Employees Zero-hours contracts, or casual contracts, allow employers to hire staff with no guarantee of work. This effectively means employees work only when they are needed by employers, often at short notice with pay depending on how many hours they work. “The use of zero-hours contracts is something that needs to be addressed within the security industry,” comments Magenta Security’s Managing Director Abbey Petkar. “We are proud to say that Magenta has no zero-hours contractors on its books nor will we in the future. If you are able to provide employees with secure and quality employment then the likelihood is that you will get more from your workforce. Zero-hours contracts do not allow employees to build decent careers for themselves and should be condemned.” Quality Employment Means Better Service Employees of Magenta Security benefit from full training on joining the company and are recruited knowing that they will receive the majority of the hourly charge rate negotiated. This policy is in place due to Magenta’s belief that quality employment means a better service for their clients and customers. Magenta Security has its head office in Hounslow, with operations in Swindon, Birmingham, Manchester and Kent. As well as security officers, mobile patrols and electronic surveillance, partnerships with external suppliers means Magenta can provide a variety of additional services to clients including luxury car hire, cleaning and housekeeping.

Magenta Security MD Abbey Petkar believes it will be many more months before the legislation is bought into force A leading Hounslow based security provider has expressed its disappointment over the lack of progression with the introduction of the SIA Business Licences. Particularly its absence from the Queen’s Speech. Abbey Petkar, Managing Director of Magenta Security Services, believes it will be many more months before the legislation is bought into force due to the time it will take to push through Parliament. Ensure Licensed Security Service Providers He says: “The security industry is an incredibly dynamic sector. But there are still underlying issues which blight us all - rogue traders. These companies who undercut costs but provide sub-standard services. Too many times I have witnessed customers realize they have made a costly mistake by working with these companies. Unfortunately it is not always easy to tell the legitimate providers of professional security services from the rogue operators, which is why the industry needs further regulation in the form of business licenses.” “The new regulations would ensure that all legitimate security service providers are licensed at a firm-level in addition to the individual officers but we are still no closer to business licensing being formalized. Business licensing needs Ministerial and Parliamentary approval so it is unlikely to happen overnight but something which is desperately needed,” continues Petkar. “It was disappointing to see that even under the new Government there was no mention of the SIA Business Licensing in the latest Queen’s Speech. With such a large amount of people operating in an industry, it is necessary to improve regulation in an attempt to maintain the legitimacy, standards and reputation of firms and individuals that provide a quality service. Business licenses won’t just benefit professionals and the industry but the safety of our clients which is why we will keep pushing for its introduction,” he concludes.