Associated British Ports extends security contract with Mitie

In practice, Mitie will continue to deliver advanced security guarding services across Associated British Ports-operated sites, in turn supporting the safety of passengers and cargo departing from – and arriving into – the UK.

Mitie’s trained and Security Industry Authority-licensed officers are equipped with the latest technology to ensure a safer environment across Associated British Ports’ property estate. At most sites, officers control access gate barriers and conduct patrols and vehicle searches. They will also be involved in CCTV monitoring to prevent potential crime or anti-social activity.

In addition, Mitie’s customer service teams working at cruise terminals are responsible for ensuring passengers enjoy a smooth and safe journey from the moment they set foot on the port. Equipped with state-of-the-art passenger and baggage screening equipment, Mitie’s team members ensure that all travellers undergo security checks before boarding. On top of screening, they also conduct traffic control, as well as searching vehicles delivering supplies to ships.

Innovative technology

Building on the ongoing strategic partnership with Associated British Ports, Mitie will continue to introduce innovative technology and ways of working. For example, Mitie has implemented automated entry gates and brings intelligence capabilities to the fore, with security personnel continually analysing data, monitoring trends and creating proactive risk assessments to identify any potential vulnerabilities and enhance site security.

Associated British Ports handles 25% of the UK’s seaborne trade. Upwards of £150 billion of trade runs through its ports every year. On that basis, Mitie’s solutions and services are essential for securing and safeguarding the smooth operation of supply chains for thousands of businesses.

Circa 600 Mitie colleagues work across the 17 sites. Among them is the Port of Southampton, which is Europe’s leading cruise ‘turnaround’ port welcoming around two million passengers each year.

Supporting sustainability

In addition to security, Mitie also supports sustainability at Associated British Ports sites. For example, the Port of Southampton’s Horizon Cruise Terminal is home to the UK’s first ‘shore power’ facility for cruise ships. The terminal boasts 2,234 roof-mounted solar panels, all of which were installed by Custom Solar (Mitie’s specialist solar power system installation company). The panels provide electricity for ships while docked and before they set sail.

Jason Towse, managing director of business services at Mitie, said: “The extension of this contract is a reflection of the excellent relationship we’ve built with Associated British Ports over the past two years. Our teams have worked hard to protect travelling passengers and essential trade taking place at UK ports. We’re proud to continue our support for Associated British Ports and play our part in keeping the UK’s maritime sector moving.”

Andy Billings, Group head of security at Associated British Ports, responded: “Safe and secure ports are a critical foundation for our role as the UK’s leading port operator. Our renewed and enhanced relationship with Mitie builds on the good work transacted over the previous contract. Given our recently launched ‘Ready for Tomorrow’ strategy and a stated commitment to reach ‘Net Zero’ emissions by 2040 at the latest, we also value Mitie’s broader sustainability credentials. We now look forward to further developing our relationship with Mitie and introducing more innovation and capabilities for everything from intelligence gathering through to automation.”