Exclusive: A very welcome return for Global MSC Security

Following a COVID-19 enforced break of almost two years, the Global MSC Security Conference and Exhibition finally returned to the Bristol Hotel in Bristol, UK from 18-19 October 2021.

On the evening of Monday 18 October, there was a fantastic gala dinner hosted for sponsors, exhibitors and invited guests, all in aid of Meningitis Now. Attendees heard from the charity’s founder, Steve Dayman MBE about the vital work that Meningitis Now is carrying out. The generosity of all those in attendance must be applauded as an amazing sum of £3,578 was raised for the charity on the night.

The evening was brought to a close with the presentation of the Gordon McLanaghan Award for Security Innovation. This year’s incredibly worthy winner was John Lewis of JLA Connect. As JLA Connect, Lewis has been helping organisations to deploy best-of-breed security technology solutions for more than 25 years. During this time, he has established a deserved reputation amongst end user consultants, systems integrators and manufacturing communities, both in the UK and internationally.

Managing Director of Global MSC Security, Derek Maltby, commented on the award: “The standing ovation John received when collecting his award is a fitting tribute to the commitment and service that he has given to the security industry. John knows exactly who should be talking to whom and they listen and trust him.” Maltby continues: “John has the ability to create lasting relationships between people, technology manufacturers, integrators and end user organisations.”  

All things AI and analytics

From 9am the following morning, the conference and exhibition was in full swing, with an extensive line-up of expert speakers taking to the podium and a wide range of the industry’s leading manufacturers meeting delegates in the exhibition area.

The keynote speaker was Professor Fraser Sampson, Biometrics and Surveillance Camera Commissioner. Professor Sampson delivered a thought-provoking speech on the utilisation of facial recognition technology and to what extent it can be used in the public interest. His attendance at the event was a sign of just how important Global MSC is to the wider surveillance sector.

Throughout the rest of the day there were insightful presentations from representatives of academia, police and security technology manufacturers, all helping to share knowledge and expertise to improve the industry.

In the networking and lunch breaks, delegates had the chance to meet with leading vendors such as Milestone Systems, 360 Vision Technology, Digital Barriers and Synectics. The opportunity for people to meet face-to-face again after such a long time was taken with great enthusiasm by everyone in attendance.

Reflecting on the event, Derek Maltby said: “We were really pleased that so many exhibitors and delegates recognised the benefit of attending our popular show to meet the ‘movers and shakers’ in the security industry. From the positive comments we have received, we achieved everything we set out to and more with an incredible line-up of eminent speakers attracting good quality delegates who were able to interface with the exhibitors. It was a win, win for all concerned.

“It is early days but I suspect we will build on this success for next year’s event with an appropriate and topical subject that users and suppliers will be seeking guidance on from the relevant experts.”

A special mention must also go to David White, who has chaired Global MSC Security since its launch. David announced at the end of this year’s event that he will be retiring in mid-2022 and will therefore not be chairing another conference. His professionalism, expertise and good humour has been a huge asset to the event over the years. Enjoy retirement, David!

Tuesday 18 October 2022 has already been confirmed as the date for next year’s event with another relevant topic set to be debated and dissected by speakers and delegates alike.

For more information, please visit: https://www.globalmsc.net/seminars/