Taking stand S3, A30 at Intersec in January, the British Security Industry Association, (BSIA) is looking forward to expanding its membership and showcasing innovations from its members. In this exclusive interview, BSIA Director for Security and Export, John MacAskill, gives us some more detail on what visitors can expect from the organisation at the show.
What can visitors expect to see and learn from BSIA this Intersec?
JM: “Visitors can look forward to the BSIA Pavilion showcasing the latest security innovations from the UK. Our pavilion aims to elevate member visibility, support UK security exports into high growth global markets and solidify the United Kingdom’s position as a top innovator in the security industry. The pavilion serves as a fantastic platform for UK companies to showcase their latest products and services across various sectors, including commercial and perimeter security, homeland security and policing, fire and rescue, and cybersecurity. It offers ample opportunities for B2B engagement and interaction with UK government representatives, providing insights into official security and resilience strategies.
“Exhibitors benefit immensely from being part of a strong national brand, with support from entities like JSaRC, RISC and partnership of the UK Department of Business and Trade (DBT) and the British Embassy Dubai, which significantly enhances credibility and visibility.”
What are you hoping to achieve from the show in 2026?
JM: “Our goals include directly generating new commercial opportunities and sales leads from a high-quality international audience. We aim to access high-growth Middle East and global security markets, leveraging the event as a gateway for British technology, products, and services exports. Additionally, we plan to launch and demonstrate the latest products and innovative solutions to an audience actively seeking new technology in fire safety, security, and related fields.”
What do you think will be the main drivers for business next year?
JM: “Intersec serves as a gateway for UK companies to access high-growth global markets, particularly in the Middle East and Asia-Pacific regions.
“The primary business drivers for UK companies exhibiting at the event will be showcasing how their innovative, compliant, and integrated solutions can meet these complex and evolving demands.”
What will be the primary challenges for your members, and how do you think these might be overcome?
JM: “Exhibitors will face challenges related to the evolving threat landscape, market access complexities in the Middle East, and domestic industry issues such as talent shortages.
Overcoming these challenges will require strategic collaboration, leverage government support, and focusing on innovation. Exporters can partner with expert freight forwarders and customs specialists, invest in digital platforms for customs declarations and cargo visibility and utilise Intersec to network with global leaders and gain insights into specific MEA security challenges and risk mitigation strategies.”
Are there any new features of the show in 2026 that you’re particularly excited about?
JM: “Intersec 2026 features several exciting new developments, including an expanded show floor, an enriched program with a focus on AI-driven solutions and cybersecurity, and dedicated conferences like the Passive Fire Day.
“The show floor is being expanded by nearly 12,000 square metres (a 13% increase), utilising two additional halls to accommodate record demand and more than 1,400 exhibitors.”
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