Arena operator SMG Europe has signed a long-term extension to its partnership with event and venue security specialist Showsec.
The five-year deal covers eight SMG Europe-operated venues in the UK, including Manchester Arena, Aberdeen Exhibition & Conference Centre, Newcastle’s Metro Radio Arena, Leeds’ First Direct Arena (pictured), Scunthorpe’s Baths Hall, York Barbican, Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall and Hull’s Bonus Arena, which opened last year.
Showsec worked with SMG Europe to help open the Bonus Arena, which has a capacity of 3,500. The new deal will also see Showsec provide security services at The Event Complex Aberdeen (TECA), which is due to open this summer.
John Sharkey, executive vice-president of SMG’s European operations, said, according to the Event Industry News website: “The security and crowd management dynamic is forever changing and Showsec’s ability to manage 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.”
Showsec has been a partner of SMG Europe since 1995, when it started providing security services to the then-new Manchester Arena.
Image: Mtaylor848
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