There is a lot going on in the UK security industry at the moment, but what is coming in the next twelve months?
I have dusted off my crystal ball and attuned to the security cosmos to bring you my top ten predictions for 2026.
1. Mandatory Business Licensing Gets The Green Light
An uncharacteristically engaged Security Minister, Dan Jarvis, will finally green-light long-awaited mandatory business licensing. Although I expect an announcement on this, implementation will be some way down the line as the SIA is still finalising the new Business Approval Scheme, and with Martyn’s Law enforcement expected to be in place by Q#2 2027, they have their hands full at the moment. I’d anticipate an announcement on this in Q#3 this year, with a full rollout by Q#2 2029. Let’s see.
2. Private Security Takes On More Policing Roles
Changes to Policing in the UK will necessitate increased private security involvement in traditional law enforcement roles. With less police asked to do more, CSAS will be standardised and centralised (although Chief Constables will always have final approval of implementation), and there will be more street patrols by private security officers, both with front-line police officers and without.
Recommended Reading: The Future of UK Private Security
3. Body Worn Video Use Will Surge
Use of BWV (bodycams) will increase as violence against security operatives continues to spiral. Reductions in arrest rates, effective sentences, culture-derived aggression, and a lack of general repercussions for the actions of individuals mean that violence in society continues to climb, affecting all public-facing security workers.
4. Knife Arches And AI Weapon Detection Go Mainstream
Knife arches and AI-supported weapon detection systems will become more commonplace in major office buildings, schools, hospitals and event venues.
5. CCTV And Facial Recognition Will Expand Dramatically
With a left-wing government already looking at ways to control the populus, CCTV and AI-powered facial recognition will hugely increase in the public realm. Initially, this will be touted as a way to more effectively monitor offenders who have not been incarcerated, but it will morph into a much wider and more insidious monitoring system. Who knows where it will end and what it will eventually be used for. George Orwell, possibly, but I digress.
6. Tech Security Solutions Will Boom In Town Centres
With street crime and public order issues a growing problem in town centres, there will be a massive increase in the adoption of tech security solutions. From window film to offender marking spray, smoke cloaks, and attack alarms, businesses unable to afford guarding services will be investing in alternative security products.
7. The S12 Leadership Group Comes Of Age
The S12 Security Guarding Leadership Group will have a successful first full year. Due in no small part to their involvement in the aforementioned mandatory security business licensing, and finally having non-ACS representation on their leadership committee, finally making it the inclusive and representative body that the Home Office hoped to see.
8. UKSICA Sees Rapid Expansion
Organisations like the United Kingdom, Security Industry Compliance Association (UK SICA) will see rapid expansion due to the professional support and guidance offered, providing a more cost-effective solution for non-ACS security companies.
9. Alarm Response And Mobile Services Surge
Security alarm response and mobile services will see a significant increase in demand as cash-strapped companies, unable to fund 24/7 guarding, look at cheaper alternatives. The arrival of services like RSPNDR and Aura will also see growth this year as small businesses and even residential customers decide to seek cost-effective alarm monitoring solutions, in the face of growing levels of crime.
10. Demand For Security Officers Stagnates
In the current economic climate, and with employment costs now so problematic, I forecast a stagnation in the demand for security officer services for the first time in decades, as genuine and legally compliant charge rates move beyond the reach of many clients. Hopefully, enforcement work by the SIA, HMRC and GLAA will stop the rapid return of criminal gangs offering security officers at charge rates that can only be sustained by operating illegally.
Recommended Reading: Impact of Labour Reforms on Security Industry
The Outlook
A mixed bag, really, for the industry this year. Much of the positive progress we have been anticipating will be somewhat diluted by the problems caused by economic and societal decay.
What do you see happening this year?
Navigating 2026 With The Right Platform
Whatever this year brings, security companies that invest in quality recruitment, proper vetting, and ongoing training will be best placed to weather the challenges ahead. Whether it’s preparing for Martyn’s Law compliance, sourcing multi-skilled officers for expanded CSAS roles, or ensuring your workforce is properly vetted to BS7858 standards, GuardPass gives you the tools to hire, train, and screen your team from a single platform.
Book a free demo and see how GuardPass can support your business in 2026.