IFSEC and FIREX know how important the UK’s distribution network is to the security and fire safety sectors, so in association with our media partner at Professional Security Magazine, we’re delighted to announce the introduction of the new Distributor Network to the 2023 shows at London’s ExCeL, pictured.
Recognising the pivotal role distributors perform in the UK buying chain, the Network will provide companies with an opportunity to host their customers and technology suppliers over a focused three-day period. The Network includes DVS, Nimans, CIE- Group, DTS Solutions and COP UK who’ll all be present on the show floor, beside headline exhibitors such as Texecom and Hikvision UK & Ireland. Installer customers will be able to visit their preferred distribution partners, catch up on the latest incentives, discuss their challenges and meet with their major technology suppliers.
The distribution sector is now a significant learning and skills provider delivering training and advice on systems integration, audio-visual installation, access control, video surveillance, multi-vendor estate management, 24/7 technical support, fire alarm system design and accredited training. They’ve moved a long way from the traditional view of the local trade counter as distributors are now a collaborative partner for security and fire installers. And the Distributor Network will enable them to tell their customers.
Distributor Network partners will also deliver a series of talks and updates in the Tech Talks Seminar Theatre such as how to promote your sustainable business credentials to your customers, the advantages of managing an electric fleet of vehicles, recruitment and retention of apprentices and managing and maximising your social media accounts.
Pre-show breakfasts on selected Distributor Hubs will let installers have early access to the halls to meet with their distributors and their manufacturer suppliers to engage in exclusive one on one conversations before the show opens to the general audience.
Not forgetting the after-hours relaxation, Distributor Network partners will have VIP tickets available for the IFSEC 50th Birthday Party, at ExCeL from 6pm on Tuesday, May 18. There will be regular updates and invitations issued from the Distributor Network and IFSEC & FIREX prior to the show’s opening on May 18 so make sure you keep an eye on social media, email invitations and newsletters. Also look out for updates and initiatives in Professional Security and at its ST23 events across the UK.
Gerry Dunphy, IFSEC & FIREX Event Director says: ‘’We’re delighted to be able to welcome the UK’s leading distributors to next year’s shows as major strategic partners. Distributors have a unique position in the sector as they’re the connection between the professional installers and the manufacturers and very often have the inside track on market trends and appetites. In addition, they have moved on from just being transactional trade counters and now offer a significant range of services to their customers including training and 24/7 support. The Distributor Network is a brilliant example of where a robust and competitive group of leading companies have come together to provide their customers with a link to the industry and we look forward to embedding the Network as a major feature in future years.’’
Roy Cooper, MD of Professional Security Magazine states: ‘’We developed this idea with IFSEC and FIREX to underline how important the distribution sector is to the UK market. We regularly engage with the companies involved via our Security TWENTY events and we have a deep awareness of the connection between the installer and their distributor. It’s a natural progression to bring this idea to IFSEC and FIREX and make full use of the opportunities a large-scale, three-day event can provide- particularly one which is celebrating 50 years of success!’’
Gavin Dunleavy, Commercial Director DVS stated: “We are super excited to become a partner for the IFSEC 2023 event in London. The distribution partner programme takes the show to the next level and we are excited to be a part of this and welcome a forum where we can add our expertise and experience to shape the events of the future. IFSEC has played a huge part in our history and we look forward to it being a huge part of our future at DVS as we celebrate our 20th year in 2023.”
And Chris Edwards, Marketing Director CIE-Group Ltd says: ‘’IFSEC’s 50th anniversary year is a fantastic opportunity to launch the Distributor Network initiative to the UK security installation sector. CIE-Group are very pleased to be among some of the UK’s most innovative and dynamic value-added distributors in the UK security sector and we’re very excited to be bringing a new service-driven perspective to the sales channel and to the IFSEC event.
‘We’re looking forward to combining the Show’s reputation for innovative products with a new focus on exemplar pre- and post-sales support & education which has become a key focus for ourselves and our fellow members of the IFSEC Distributor Network.’
