Security and crowd management company Showsec has signed a new contract with SMG Europe, the UK’s biggest arena operator.

The five-year deal will see Showsec supplying security and crowd management across eight SMG sites, including; Manchester Arena, AECC, Metro Radio Arena, First Direct Arena, Baths Hall, York Barbican, Bridgewater Hall and the recently opened Bonus Arena in Hull.

Showsec provided security for 3,500 people when the Hull Bonus Arena opened in September 2018. The new contract will also see Showsec supplying security to The Event Complex Aberdeen, opening in 2019.

Showsec’s dedication to developing the marketplace and continual focus on training played a key part in SMG’s decision to renew the contract. Showsec have been providing security services to SMG since the doors opened at the Manchester Arena in 1995.

John Sharkey, Executive VP of SMG’s European Operations, commented: “The security and crowd management dynamic is forever changing and Showsec’s ability to stay ahead of the curve with its training and recruitment programmes is part of our decision to continue with our long relationship. I’m reassured that these venues and their visitors are in the very best hands.”

Showsec managing director Mark Harding added: “We’re delighted to renew our contract with SMG, a company Showsec has grown up with, and to continue refining and delivering a contemporary customer service across the SMG portfolio.

“The Bonus Arena is an exciting new element in the equation, bringing the biggest performances to Hull on the back of its hugely successful year as City of Culture. We are equally as excited for TECA’s opening too.”