Securitas Security Services (UK) Ltd recently announced they have been awarded the contract to be the sole provider of security solutions to Marks & Spencer across their UK and Ireland stores.
The contract with Marks & Spencer will see Securitas take on security services in regions that were previously provided by MITIE Facilities Management, and will involve supplying over 700 specialised retail security officers every day. The contract also includes the provision of mobile CCTV vehicles, which operate nationwide and deliver a Remote Video Surveillance (RVS) capability, which Marks & Spencer use to target crime hotspots. Securitas also becomes the preferred supplier of security solutions to Marks & Spencer worldwide supporting their international vision. Infologue estimates the contract to be worth in the region of £20million per annum.
Aside from the provision of retail security officers, the key part of the new contract is the creation of a Securitas management support team who will work in partnership with the Marks & Spencer Loss Prevention field team to significantly enhance the business focus on loss, however it is caused.
The award was made following a comprehensive tender process by the Loss Prevention and Procurement teams of Marks & Spencer.
Commenting on the decision to award Securitas the contract Sean Bowen, Head of Loss Prevention at Marks & Spencer explained the reasons for their choice.
“Ensuring the safety of our customers, stores and employees is very important for us and it was necessary that we find a partner who not only understands this but would also help us enhance our approach to loss prevention. We selected Securitas because we were confident they understood our specific risks and would deliver a high level of service that will help us achieve our security objectives.”
Securitas will continue to work alongside Marks & Spencer to ensure that the security teams not only enhance the shopping experience of every customer, but that they add value to the Marks & Spencer business. Securitas and Marks & Spencer have previously been recognised for this combined focus and sector specialisation. In 2011 Securitas and Marks & Spencer won the prestigious IFSEC award for “Customer Service Delivery” as well as been recognised as leaders in innovation in loss prevention at the BT Retail Week Awards. Securitas look forward to building on these firm foundations and continuing to develop and evolve further successful innovative solutions that lead the way in Retail Security.
Commenting on the contract award Darren Read, Chief Operating Officer at Securitas commented “This has been a 7 year journey with many people across our business contributing to this success. We have developed a clear understanding of the Marks & Spencer culture, loss prevention strategy and commitment to customer service. This win is a great example of why specialisation matters and further strengthens our position as the No1 UK and Ireland Retail Security provider.”