When searching for a security company in London, it's essential to consider those with stellar reputations, extensive experience, and tailored service offerings.
1. G4S
A British multinational headquartered in London, G4S has long been a global leader, offering services like manned guarding, cash handling, risk management, and technological based solutions WikipediaJobs Link Group. Before being acquired by Allied Universal in 2021, it was the world's largest security company by revenue Wikipedia.
2. Mitie Security
Recognized as the largest security company in the UK, Mitie provides a combination of guarding services and tech-driven solutions, serving government, retail, infrastructure, and more AuxiliumJobs Link Group. Recently, they saw a 13% revenue increase—£2.4 billion in the first half of the year—driven by surge response contracts due to civil unrest and a major prison contract Financial Times.
3. Securitas UK
A global security brand, Securitas UK operates widely across London, offering services such as mobile patrols, remote monitoring, and customized guarding tailored for public and private sectors AuxiliumJobs Link Group.
4. Corps Security (Corps of Commissionaires)
Founded in 1859, Corps Security stands as the world’s oldest security company Wikipedia. With more than 5,000 licensed professionals, many ex-military or police, it specializes in corporate and government contracts and operates a monitoring centre Wikipedia.
5. Banham Group
A family-run security company founded in 1926, Banham is now London’s largest supplier of burglary and fire prevention systems Wikipedia. They offer locks, alarm systems, CCTV, access control, and safes across Greater London and beyond Wikipedia.
6. Auxilium Services Ltd
An emerging favorite in London, Auxilium offers tailored security—event protection, manned guarding, construction site security, and more—backed by SIA-licensed staff, 24/7 support, and competitive pricing Auxilium+1.
7. 1st Class Protection
Established in 2004, this firm is among London’s premier security agencies. It offers a broad service range—concierge, residential, educational, healthcare, construction, and more—with a reputation for high-caliber, SIA-approved personnel and exceptional client testimonials 1st Class Protection.
8. Westminster Security
Based in central London, Westminster Security provides high-end close protection—often for government officials, royalty, and heads of state—with a team composed largely of military veterans, police officers, and emergency service professionals Westminster Security. They were pioneers in the security space: the first London security company to sign the Armed Forces Covenant, join the London Living Wage scheme, and accept secure cryptocurrency payments Westminster Security.
9. Anubis Security
Operating across major UK cities including London, Anubis provides SIA-approved guarding, mobile patrols, event security, canine units, and even SIA training Anubis Security. Their comprehensive suite—ranging from vacant property monitoring to facilities management—is backed by professional planning and risk assessment Anubis Security.
10. Shield CP Security
A private London-based firm offering residential security, bodyguard chauffeur services, door security, child protection, canine units, and counter-surveillance Shield CP Security. They emphasize bespoke risk assessments, discretion, SIA licensing, and GDPR-compliant confidentiality Shield CP Security.
Choosing the Right Security Company in London
Here are essential factors when selecting a security company in London:
Reputation & Experience: Look for proven track records and client testimonials (e.g. 1st Class Protection’s glowing client feedback) 1st Class Protection.
Range of Services: Choose a firm with services aligned to your needs—residential, corporate, event, VIP, or tech-forward security.
Qualified Staff: All must be SIA-licensed; many of London’s leaders like Westminster and Corps Security also require enhanced backgrounds and BS7858 vetting Westminster SecurityWikipedia.
Technology Integration: Firms like Mitie and Securitas offer remote monitoring, biometric access, and drone surveillance Companies LondonJobs Link GroupAuxilium.
Response & Support: Prioritize companies known for fast response and 24/7 coverage (Auxilium, Anubis) AuxiliumAnubis Security.
Value-added Services: Consider those offering risk assessments, training, or unique offerings—like Westminster’s use of cryptocurrency or Anubis’s canine units Westminster SecurityAnubis SecurityShield CP Security.
Security Industry Context in London
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) is the statutory regulator for the UK’s private security industry, responsible for licensing individuals and managing the Approved Contractor Scheme Wikipedia. Ensuring your provider works with SIA-licensed personnel is crucial to compliance, professionalism, and accountability.
Final Thoughts
Navigating options for a security company in London can be overwhelming—but armed with knowledge of market leaders and selection criteria, you’re well-equipped to make the right choice. Whether you're seeking high-stakes VIP protection, advanced tech-enabled monitoring, or comprehensive event security, London offers a broad ecosystem of specialized providers.
From multinational giants like G4S and Mitie to bespoke operators such as Westminster Security and Shield CP, each firm carves out unique strengths—be it scale, heritage, innovation, or personalization. Demand the best: combination of licensing, reputation, technological capability, agility, and client care.
In today’s evolving threat landscape—from cyberattacks to physical security challenges—the importance of selecting a trusted security company in London cannot be overstated. Your choice will not only protect assets and personnel—it will also shape peace of mind for years to come.