Should you use a national or local security provider?

From keeping employees safe to reducing the risk of theft, unauthorised access and vandalism, physical security is something all businesses need to stay on top of.

For facilities managers and others with responsibility for overseeing the security function, the first decision that you will need to make is whether to call on the support of an external provider or handle it inhouse.  

If choosing to work with an external security provider, you will then have the choice of going with a national company or a smaller local firm.  

In this blog, we take a closer look at the benefits of going local and hear from businesses who have done just that.

National versus local security provider

Imagine for a second you are a manufacturer in Southampton looking to outsource your security. A quick Google search for security companies looking after your local area is likely to be topped by ads for larger, national firms. But are they the best choice?

While a national security company may provide you with the confidence that comes from using a larger, well-known name, it doesn’t guarantee quality of service. You also risk becoming just another number within the system – and sometimes it’s not so good being a small fish in a big pond!

In contrast, using a reputable local company can lead to a more personalised and flexible service, delivered by a team that has a greater understanding of the local area. This may have a positive impact on potential response times and you may also find, if growth is high on your agenda, that a quality provider will be able to grow with you and your evolving needs.

5 benefits of working with a local security company

1. Local area knowledge

Local security firms will have a deep understanding of the specific challenges, vulnerabilities and what is happening in the local area, supporting the provision of effective security services.

2. Personalised services

Local companies often offer a more personalised service, building strong relationships with customers and providing tailored solutions. Here at Venture, we are proud to keep our customers for many years – in multiple cases, more than a decade now and counting!

3. Responsiveness

Being based nearby means local security companies can respond to incidents and emergency situations faster. It also supports strong contingency planning, for example in the case of illness or transport issues, helping to reduce potential service disruption.

4. Flexibility

Local security teams can be more flexible and adaptable to specific needs, offering a level of service that larger national companies can struggle to match. For example, if one of our customers at Venture is in need of ad hoc support, or an unexpected incident happens, we will always do our best to help as quickly as possible.

5. Economic impact

Supporting local businesses also helps boost the local economy by creating jobs and fostering community growth. Your business will always be greatly appreciated and valued by a local team.

Venture Security – trusted local security

Here at Venture, we are proud to be an Andover born and bred company that only uses security officers we directly employ, and who are based in the local areas we service. We know this is something our customers really value.

We continue to grow our presence across the region, including having security officers active across Hampshire, Wiltshire, Dorset and Surrey, including within: Andover, Winchester, Basingstoke, Salisbury, Trowbridge, Southampton, Fareham and Portsmouth.

Case study - PLP

Preformed Line Products (PLP) is an international designer and manufacturer of products and systems employed in the construction and maintenance of networks. PLP did not want its security handled by a ‘faceless national business’, instead valuing the opportunity to work with and get to know a local team. The strength of the relationship formed between our two companies has subsequently seen Venture supporting PLP for more than a decade.

“I am someone who likes to pick up the phone and talk to people and Venture works in the same way. They are very approachable, friendly and responsive. When there is an issue, they are on site quickly and always go above and beyond in supporting us.” (Managing Director, PLP GB)  

Case study – London City Bond (LCB)

LCB is the largest privately-owned tax warehousing company in the UK. Venture Security has been providing frontline defence for LCB’s Dinton Wood Storage Facility in Salisbury since 2017. The company called on our services following a poor experience with a previous supplier, where consistency, quality, capability and reliability was lacking. LCB wanted a local provider who understood the area.

"What appealed to us most about Venture is that they are experienced and locally based, with depth and strength in the team, which includes officers who are ex-military. They are very responsive, and we have always received a consistently high quality and reliable service. Officers are respectful to our staff and the facility and being local, understand the area and its nuances. They are also discreet. I would definitely recommend.” (LCB Dinton, General Manager)

In need of expert security support you can trust?

 At Venture, we offer a range of security services that meet a variety of business needs and budgets. Our most popular services include:

• Mobile security patrols

A mobile security officer will visit your site and walk round the property to look out for any signs of a break in, or other criminal activity. These patrols will be carried out at random times and at an agreed frequency. They are a cost-effective alternative to static guards.

• Key holding & alarm response

We will securely hold a set of keys to your property and be listed as the primary key holder with your Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC), supporting you in an emergency situation, such as by responding to an alarm or patrolling your premises.

• Locks & unlocks

 Our mobile security operatives can open and secure your premises for you, as dictated by your business’ needs. This may include unlocking the building for a lone worker or taking a delivery at short notice on weekends and bank holidays.

• Manned guarding

 Having static security officers on site can support you with a wide range of manned guarding needs, whether it’s front-of-house and reception duties, or the provision of static checkpoints, access control or control room duties.

Contact us today

Our award-winning team at Venture has been supporting local authorities, private and public sector organisations across the region for almost 20 years. To find out more about our specialist security services, call us for a free, no-obligation chat on 01264 391538 or email [email protected].

Interested in joining our team? You can view our current vacancies and apply here: Venture Security jobs and careers | Indeed.com