IFSEC 2014 Will Take Place at ExCeL in London

Early in February UBM Live announced that IFSEC International, FIREX International, Safety & Health Expo and Facilities Show will move from Birmingham's NEC to ExCeL London in June 2014. According to the organisers the decision comes at the end of a 12 month period of research and consultation with stakeholders across all communities. At about the same time Clarion Events announced the launch of a new installer and channel facing event, Security Technology Live, which will be held at the NEC Birmingham in May 2014. We had the opportunity to ask Charlie Cracknell, IFSEC Security Portfolio Director, UBM Live about the move of IFSEC to London in 2014.

GIT-SECURITY.com: Was getting more international the main reason for the move?

Charlie Cracknell: Building the IFSEC International presence globally is a significant area for us, however it wasn't the main reason behind the move. We conducted extensive research into all areas of the event to ensure that the move catered for everyone. By relocating to ExCeL, we feel that IFSEC International will continue to unite all parts of the security buying chain in a truly integrated event. With 30 per cent of IFSEC's 25,000 visitors coming from overseas currently, being based in the most connected city in Europe positions IFSEC perfectly for further international growth, as well as maintaining our commitment to the UK market.

What do you think about the Clarion event in Birmingham?

Charlie Cracknell: I think it's important that we provide the market with an event that caters for a broad range of needs. We don't want the market to become fragmented, which could lead to disruption in how the buying chain interacts. Birmingham has been a good home to the industry for the past 16 years and we have listened to the needs across the whole sector by relocating back to its origin in London. Bringing the whole industry together is essential to helping all areas recognize the importance of integrating with one another.

Is there a clear distinction between the two fairs or is it just a competition between two companies?

Charlie Cracknell: IFSEC International has been an established event for 40 years and is well respected in the industry, not only as an event but also for the high level of education it provides. We give visitors the opportunity to be educated by well respected industry voices, helping them gain knowledge that they wouldn't have learned elsewhere. We have received overwhelming support across the whole buying chain who have stressed that they are committed to attending IFSEC based on their understanding of the event and the value they know it brings. Events entering the market need to clearly distinguish themselves to avoid the market becoming confused.