Top 10 Security Companies in UK You Can Trust in 2025

Security is a top priority for businesses, organisations, and public spaces across the UK. Choosing the right provider can mean the difference between reactive measures and a proactive strategy that protects people, property, and reputation. The top 10 security companies in UK for 2025 stand out for their professionalism, innovation, and proven track records.

From manned guarding and surveillance to intelligence-led threat detection, these companies deliver comprehensive solutions for diverse industries. Whether safeguarding a retail store, managing large events, or protecting critical infrastructure, the right partner offers both physical presence and advanced technology.

This guide explores each leading security company’s services, strengths, and distinctive features, helping you make an informed decision. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which providers align best with your needs in today’s evolving security landscape.

What Services Do Top UK Security Companies Offer?

Security companies in the UK provide an extensive range of services designed to protect people, property, and assets. These services are not limited to physical guarding but increasingly incorporate advanced technologies and intelligence-based strategies.

Manned guarding remains a core offering, placing trained officers on-site to deter threats and respond to incidents. This may include reception security, concierge-style roles, or specialist guarding for high-risk areas. Mobile patrols provide flexible coverage for sites that do not require permanent staff.

Technology-led services are now integral to modern security. CCTV monitoring centres operate 24/7, while biometric access control and AI-powered surveillance enhance accuracy and reduce false alarms. Alarm response and keyholding give businesses peace of mind that any triggered alert will be dealt with swiftly.

Some leading firms also offer consultancy, providing risk assessments, penetration testing, and compliance audits. In high-profile or sensitive environments, close protection officers (CPOs) safeguard individuals against targeted threats.

How Do I Choose the Best Security Company for My Needs?

Selecting the right security provider involves assessing both the quality of service and its suitability for your specific requirements. An initial step is to identify the level of security you need—whether it is round-the-clock guarding, event cover, or specialist risk management.

Accreditations are a strong indicator of quality. In the UK, the Security Industry Authority (SIA) Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS) rates companies on operational and customer service excellence. ISO certifications and membership of professional bodies can also demonstrate high standards.

Reputation is another vital factor. Reviewing case studies, testimonials, and retention rates will provide insight into how the company performs over time.

Key considerations when comparing providers:

• Experience in your sector: Retail, corporate, healthcare, transport, or events.
• Technology integration: The use of advanced tools for prevention and monitoring.
• Response capabilities: Speed and efficiency in emergencies.
• Staff training and vetting: Ensuring personnel are qualified and reliable.

A consultation or security audit offered by the provider can help you understand their approach and how it aligns with your operational needs. Choosing a company with both scale and adaptability ensures protection remains effective as risks evolve.

Are UK Security Companies Regulated and Accredited?

Yes. The UK security industry operates under strict regulation, primarily through the Security Industry Authority (SIA), which oversees licensing for individual security professionals and accredits companies via its Approved Contractor Scheme.

The SIA sets training and conduct standards for roles such as security guards, door supervisors, CCTV operators, and close protection officers. Without proper licensing, individuals cannot legally work in these capacities.

For businesses, SIA ACS approval is a mark of quality and compliance. It involves rigorous assessment of management processes, staff training, operational standards, and customer satisfaction.

Many top firms also hold additional industry accreditations:

• ISO 9001 – Quality Management Systems
• NSI Gold – High standards in guarding and security system installation
• SafeContractor – Health and safety compliance

Accredited companies are more likely to invest in continuous training, ethical recruitment, and innovation. For clients, these credentials provide assurance that the provider is accountable to external regulators and industry bodies.

The combination of legal licensing for staff and recognised accreditation for companies ensures a framework of trust, making it easier for clients to identify reputable providers.

What Factors Affect Security Service Costs in the UK?

Security costs in the UK vary depending on service type, level of expertise required, and contract structure. Manned guarding is often priced per hour, with rates influenced by factors such as location, risk profile, and whether the role is static or mobile.

Specialist roles, such as close protection officers or highly trained event security, command higher rates due to additional qualifications and experience.

Other key cost factors include:

• Contract length: Long-term agreements may offer better value per hour.
• Technology integration: Advanced systems like biometric access or AI surveillance can increase upfront costs but reduce staffing needs.
• Sector requirements: Industries such as aviation or critical infrastructure often need higher security clearances.

Balancing budget with risk tolerance is essential. Investing in skilled personnel and reliable systems often leads to reduced losses, making it cost-effective in the long term.

How Do Security Companies Ensure Staff Quality and Training?

Staff quality is one of the most critical factors in effective security provision. Reputable UK companies follow a comprehensive process from recruitment through to ongoing development.

First, all candidates must pass strict vetting, which typically includes identity checks, criminal record screening, employment history verification, and right-to-work confirmation. Many providers exceed the basic SIA requirements by adding enhanced background checks.

Training is both role-specific and ongoing. New recruits complete SIA-approved courses before starting work, covering legal responsibilities, conflict management, and industry best practice. Additional modules may include customer service skills, health and safety, and sector-specific procedures.

Leading firms run refresher courses and scenario-based training to keep staff prepared for evolving threats. Some also offer career progression programmes, ensuring officers remain motivated and engaged.

Highlights of effective staff management:

• Vetting thorough screening for reliability and integrity.
• Role-specific training tailored to each contract’s environment.
• Ongoing development, continuous upskilling, and compliance updates.

This combination of screening, structured training, and career support ensures personnel not only meet regulatory standards but also deliver a high-quality service that reflects well on the client.

10 Security Companies in the UK

1. Mitie Security

Mitie Security stands as the UK’s largest security provider, employing more than 25,000 personnel and delivering over 36 million hours of protection annually. The company is known for integrating human expertise with advanced, purpose-built technology to deliver end-to-end security solutions.

Mitie’s services begin with adaptable, fully certified manned guarding, available for sectors such as transport, retail, corporate offices, and critical infrastructure. Their intelligence division provides detailed risk assessments and proactive monitoring, ensuring potential threats are identified and addressed before they escalate.

The company’s technology-driven approach includes the installation and maintenance of over 73,000 fire and security systems, offering 24/7 protection for buildings, data, and assets.

A standout service is their specialist vetting, delivered through Procius and UKCRBs, which helps organisations prevent fraud, theft, and operational disruption by thoroughly screening staff. This is particularly valuable for sensitive environments requiring the highest levels of trust and compliance.

Key services:

• Manned guarding for diverse sectors
• Intelligence-led risk assessment and monitoring
• Fire and security system installation and maintenance
• Comprehensive personnel vetting

Mitie’s combination of scale, sector expertise, and innovation allows it to deliver tailored, scalable solutions for both single-site clients and national contracts. Operating to SIA-approved standards, they offer not just protection but strategic insight into evolving risks, making them a leading choice for security in 2025.

2. G4S

G4S, part of Allied Universal®, is one of the most recognised names in UK security, with operations in more than 90 countries and a global workforce exceeding 800,000 people. Their UK operations benefit from a unique combination of global expertise and local delivery, enabling them to meet the complex needs of both public and private sector clients.

Their services include manned guarding, access control, CCTV monitoring, and fully integrated security systems designed to protect people, assets, and reputations. G4S’s teams are trained to operate in high-risk and sensitive environments, making them an ideal choice for critical infrastructure, corporate offices, and public spaces.

A major strength of G4S lies in its integration of smart technology with physical security. They employ advanced surveillance systems, real-time incident tracking, and data-driven risk analysis to enhance prevention and response capabilities. This ensures that their security solutions are both proactive and adaptive to evolving threats.

Key services:

• On-site security officers and access control
• CCTV monitoring and surveillance technology
• Integrated security management systems
• Risk and threat assessment consultancy

SIA-accredited and supported by the resources of a multinational leader, G4S delivers scalable and customised security solutions. Their ability to draw on global trends while applying local insight gives them a competitive advantage, ensuring they remain a trusted choice for organisations seeking high-standard, technology-enabled security in 2025.

3. Securitas

With over 80 years of global experience, Securitas operates in the UK with a clear focus on tailored security solutions. Their approach is built around a six Protective Services model, combining on-site guarding, mobile patrols, electronic security, fire safety, and remote monitoring.

This integrated framework ensures that clients receive comprehensive protection designed specifically for their operational environment. Securitas avoids the one-size-fits-all approach, instead carrying out in-depth risk assessments to design services that are both effective and cost-efficient.

This makes them a suitable partner for businesses ranging from small enterprises to multinational corporations. Their client portfolio includes sectors such as retail, corporate offices, manufacturing, and logistics.

Technology plays a significant role in their offering, with electronic security systems, keyholding, and alarm response services complementing the human element of their operations. Their officers are trained to a high standard, capable of managing both physical threats and customer interactions professionally.

Key services:

• Manned guarding and mobile patrols
• Keyholding and alarm response
• Electronic security and monitoring
• Risk assessment and consultancy

SIA-approved and internationally recognised, Securitas is also committed to sustainability and innovation, embedding environmentally responsible practices into its security services. This balance of tradition, modern technology, and environmental responsibility keeps Securitas at the forefront of the UK security industry in 2025.

4. Corps Security (UK) Limited

Founded in 1859, Corps Security holds a distinctive position as the UK’s only major social enterprise in the security industry. Alongside delivering high-quality protection, they maintain a mission to provide employment opportunities for ex-military personnel, creating meaningful social impact alongside commercial excellence.

Corps delivers specialist manned guarding for diverse environments, from corporate offices to high-risk industrial sites. Their 24/7 remote monitoring services are managed from gold-standard facilities, offering rapid incident detection and response.

The company has embraced technological advancements such as drone-assisted surveillance, providing enhanced visibility and faster coverage for large or complex locations.

In addition to physical security, Corps offers consultancy services, including penetration testing and security reviews, to identify vulnerabilities and design tailored solutions. This proactive approach ensures that protection is aligned with each client’s unique needs.

Key services:

• Specialist manned guarding
• Remote CCTV and alarm monitoring
• Drone surveillance for large sites
• Security consultancy and penetration testing

Holding SIA accreditation and multiple industry awards, Corps also leads in ethical business practices, including Living Wage commitments and carbon-neutral status. With over 166 years of experience, they blend heritage, innovation, and social value, making them an outstanding choice for organisations that value both security and corporate responsibility.

5. STM Group (UK) Ltd

Established in 2005, STM Group (UK) Ltd has built a strong reputation as a customer-focused, quality-driven security provider. Ranked in the top 15% of SIA Approved Contractor Scheme companies, STM delivers tailored protection that blends technical expertise with exceptional client service.

Their portfolio spans static and mobile guarding, event security, and close protection for high-profile individuals. Every deployment is tailored to match the client’s operational needs, sector regulations, and security goals.  STM operates in industries such as healthcare, transport, retail, education, and construction, demonstrating a versatile approach to security delivery.

A hallmark of STM’s service is their “One Team” culture, ensuring that all staff from front-line officers to senior management are aligned with client objectives.

This approach is supported by rigorous vetting, site-specific training, and a strong emphasis on customer service skills, enabling security personnel to act as brand ambassadors while maintaining safety.

Key services:

• Static and mobile guarding
• Event and venue security
• Close protection services
• Sector-specific security operations

By incorporating digital reporting tools and performance monitoring, STM offers full transparency and continuous service improvement. With a focus on measurable outcomes, high standards, and client satisfaction, STM Group continues to be a trusted name in UK security for 2025.

6. Carlisle Support Services

Carlisle Support Services delivers fully self-delivered security solutions, ensuring quality control without the use of subcontractors. With over 30 years in the industry and a remarkable 95% client retention rate, they are trusted by some of the UK’s largest brands.

Their security services span retail, healthcare, events, and transport, offering both general and advanced protection. Carlisle also provides security and monitoring systems, combining skilled personnel with cutting-edge electronics for complete site coverage. Their integrated approach enables them to reduce risks, lower costs, and increase operational efficiency for clients.

Carlisle invests heavily in its workforce, focusing on ethical labour practices, comprehensive training, and clear career paths. Officers are equipped to handle both security incidents and customer-facing duties, ensuring they contribute positively to client environments.

Key services:

• General and advanced security guarding
• Event and venue protection
• Retail and healthcare security
• Security and monitoring technology

The company’s direct leadership involvement ensures transparent communication, clear KPIs, and continual performance reviews. Carlisle’s ability to combine innovation with long-standing sector expertise positions them as a reliable partner for organisations seeking security solutions with measurable results in 2025.

7. OCS Group UK Ltd

With over 125 years of experience, OCS Group UK Ltd is a major player in the British security market, delivering more than 6 million hours of guarding annually. Their nationwide operations serve clients in retail, corporate, and public sectors, combining traditional security measures with innovative technology.

OCS integrates security with facilities management, providing unified services that improve efficiency and streamline communication. This includes manned guarding, retail loss prevention, and remote CCTV monitoring from dedicated national centres.

A standout feature is the OCS Advance team, which implements AI-powered surveillance, biometric access control, and smart building integration. These technologies enhance safety, reduce response times, and improve operational sustainability.

Key services:

• Nationwide manned guarding
• Retail loss prevention strategies
• CCTV surveillance and monitoring
• AI and biometric security solutions

Accredited by the SIA and multiple industry bodies, OCS maintains a strong commitment to compliance and best practice. Their focus on blending people, processes, and technology ensures clients benefit from both robust physical protection and future-ready innovation.

8. TSS (Total Security Services) Ltd

Founded in 1989, TSS specialises in retail security and intelligence-led protection. With over 6,500 staff, they provide tailored services backed by their proprietary Crime Hub platform, which collects and analyses threat data to inform targeted security measures.

TSS’s services include manned guarding, mobile patrols, and blended manned-and-technology solutions. They work across sectors, including retail, healthcare, education, and public events, offering flexibility and adaptability in their operations.

Their “Gold Standard” approach focuses on measurable performance, ensuring clients receive a strong return on investment. Dedicated account managers oversee each contract, maintaining consistent service quality and responding quickly to evolving risks.

Key services:

• Retail and commercial guarding
• Intelligence-led crime prevention
• Mobile patrols and keyholding
• Technology-integrated security

With SIA accreditation and three decades of experience, TSS combines sector expertise with advanced tools to protect assets, prevent losses, and improve client safety in 2025.

9. Kingdom

Kingdom provides tailored security solutions with a strong emphasis on client relationships and community values. Operating for over 30 years, they serve industries including manufacturing, logistics, retail, and education, maintaining an impressive 97% customer retention rate.

Their services include retail and shopping centre security, mobile patrols, keyholding, CCTV monitoring, and concierge or front-of-house personnel. Each contract is designed to match the client’s operational culture and branding, ensuring security officers are an extension of the client’s team.

Kingdom stands out for its “service with care” philosophy, which prioritises partnerships, diversity, and social responsibility. They invest in training, innovation, and staff wellbeing to maintain high service standards.

Key services:

• Retail and public space security
• Mobile patrols and alarm response
• CCTV and access control monitoring
• Concierge and front-of-house roles

SIA-approved and recognised for operational excellence, Kingdom’s blend of professionalism, adaptability, and ethical practices makes them a trusted partner for organisations seeking dependable security in 2025.

10. Wilson James

Wilson James has been delivering high-standard security solutions for over 30 years, serving sectors such as aviation, construction, ports, and visitor attractions. Their consultancy-led approach begins with a full audit of existing measures, leading to tailored strategies that combine manpower, technology, and risk management.

Their security services include guarding, CCTV monitoring, remote assistance, event protection, and sector-specific operations. They are trusted by over 300 clients across the UK, with deployments ranging from critical infrastructure to cultural venues.

Wilson James is recognised in the top 5% of SIA Approved Contractors, reflecting exceptional compliance and service standards. Their recruitment process ensures officers are highly trained, professional, and aligned with client objectives.

Key services:

• Security guarding and risk management
• CCTV surveillance and remote monitoring
• Event and venue security
• Sector-specific security consultancy

With a commitment to innovation, customer service, and workforce development, Wilson James continues to raise industry standards, offering trusted protection for people, assets, and reputations in 2025.

Comparison of the Top 10 Security Companies in the UK

Conclusion

The top 10 security companies in the UK each bring unique strengths to the table, offering a range of services that combine skilled personnel with cutting-edge technology.

From nationwide giants like Mitie and G4S to specialised providers such as Corps Security and STM Group, these organisations deliver reliable protection across sectors. Choosing the right company depends on your operational requirements, budget, and whether you prioritise scale, innovation, or social value.

Key factors to consider include service quality, adaptability, technology integration, and customer retention rates. By partnering with a reputable provider, businesses and organisations can ensure effective risk management, compliance with industry standards, and peace of mind.

In 2025, security is not just about defence, it’s about building a safe, resilient environment for people, assets, and operations. These companies set the benchmark for what trusted, professional security should look like in the UK.

FAQs

What is the difference between security guarding and close protection?

Security guarding involves protecting a site, premises, or event, usually with a visible deterrent presence. Close protection focuses on safeguarding individuals who may face higher personal risks, providing discreet, personalised security.

How often should security risk assessments be carried out?

A formal risk assessment should be conducted at least once a year, but more frequent reviews are recommended if there are operational changes, new threats, or significant incidents.

Can small businesses benefit from professional security services?

Yes. Many providers offer scalable solutions for SMEs, such as part-time guarding, mobile patrols, or CCTV monitoring, ensuring affordability without compromising safety.

Are modern security companies using AI technology?

Yes. AI-powered surveillance and analytics are increasingly used to detect suspicious activity, reduce false alarms, and improve response times.

What sectors rely most on private security services in the UK?

Common sectors include retail, transport, healthcare, manufacturing, corporate offices, events, and critical infrastructure.

Do these companies provide nationwide coverage?

Most leading UK security firms operate nationally, with many also offering international support through partner networks.

How can I verify a security company’s credentials?

Check if the company is accredited under the SIA Approved Contractor Scheme and review their industry certifications, case studies, and client testimonials.