For a closer relationship between the UK and US security markets, before Brexit trade deals, the British Security Industry Association (BSIA) has held talks with its American equivalent, the Security Industry Association (SIA).
Representing 640 companies across the United States, the SIA’s work mirrors that of the BSIA in the UK, engaging with the US Government and both Houses of Congress on Capitol Hill while providing members with industry research, developing standards and advancing industry professionalism through training courses.
At a private summit in Washington DC on Friday, March 17, the BSIA’s Public Affairs Executive, Felix Parker-Smith, met with SIA counterparts to discuss synergies between the two organisations and explore opportunities for closer collaboration. Meanwhile, a return visit planned for this summer will see a delegation from the SIA visit the BSIA in London, with its Chief Executive, Don Erickson, scheduled to speak at the BSIA’s Annual Luncheon on July 12.
The BSIA suggests that closer ties between the two organisations may also help to ensure that the British security industry is best placed to reap the benefits of international trade deals established after Brexit.
Felix Parker-Smith said: “Although there will be a number of businesses back home in the UK concerned about the potential effects of Brexit, these negotiations are only one side of the debate and we should welcome potential trade agreements beneficial to the UK security industry with open arms. Today’s summit in Washington with the American Security Industry Association reinforces that view, laying the groundwork for a positive trade agreement between the UK and the USA once we leave the EU.”
For UK security companies, the US is already an important export market. According to a 2016 survey, almost 25pc of BSIA Export Council members hope to increase business in the USA over the next 12 months. Meanwhile, the BSIA says that its links with the rest of Europe remain strong through its presence on Euralarm and CoESS (Confederation of European Security Suppliers) committees.
BSIA Chief Executive, James Kelly, said: “It’s an exciting time for the UK to throw open the doors to wider international trade, especially with our closest ally and largest individual trading partner. I look forward to welcoming our American colleagues to London in the summer to showcase the UK security industry.”
For more about the BSIA and its public affairs, visit: https://www.bsia.co.uk/join-the-bsia/benefits-of-membership/representation.aspx.
To book your place at the BSIA’s Annual Luncheon on Wednesday 12th July, visit http://bit.ly/2n3dHPV.
