The event security and stewarding contractor Showsec has renewed their contract with venue management group and UK arena operator, SMG Europe. A five-year deal will see Showsec supplying security and crowd management across eight SMG sites: Manchester Arena, AECC (Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre), Metro Radio Arena, First Direct Arena, Baths Hall, York Barbican, Bridgewater Hall and the recently opened Bonus Arena in Hull, pictured.
When SMG Europe opened the Hull Bonus Arena in August 2018, Showsec provided security for up to 3,500 people. The renewal will also see Leicester-based Showsec delivering services to the new £333m conference, exhibition and event venue, TECA, opening in Aberdeen in 2019. Showsec has been providing security services to SMG since the doors opened at the Manchester Arena in 1995.
John Sharkey, Executive VP of SMG’s European Operations, says: “The security and crowd management dynamic is forever changing and Showsec’s ability to manage to stay ahead of the curve with its training and recruitment programmes is part of our decision to continue with our long relationship. I’m reassured that these venues and their visitors are in the very best hands.’
Showsec Managing Director, Mark Harding, says: “We’re delighted to renew our contract with SMG, a company Showsec has grown up with, and to continue refining and delivering a contemporary customer service across the SMG portfolio. The Bonus Arena is an exciting new element in the equation, bringing the biggest performances to Hull on the back of its hugely successful year as City of Culture. We are equally as excited for TECA’s opening too.”
