Download PDF version Contact company

A bespoke fire and security solution specified and installed by Evolution, the pioneering integrated fire and security systems business, is helping to protect visitors and staff at Johnnie Walker Princes Street (JWPS) in the heart of Edinburgh.

Situated on Princes Street, JWPS takes visitors on an immersive journey through the 200-year history behind the world’s best-selling whisky, as well as food and drink experiences, hosted across eight floors of the transformed landmark building in the Scottish capital. It features the 1820 rooftop bar, with stunning views across the city, and The Label Studio, which hosts several live events and performances throughout the year.

Need for fire and security system

JWPS, which has quickly become one of Edinburgh’s top attractions, is owned by Diageo, a global pioneer in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of over 200 brands across beer and spirits.

Diageo appointed FES Group, one of the UK’s technical and building services companies, to tender for the fire and security system, and FES in turn recommended and appointed Evolution to manage the bespoke system’s design and installation.

Fire detection and alarm system

This solution has archiving and failover technologies that provide business continuity across a variety of outages

Evolution’s solution comprises a complete fire detection and alarm system, including disabled refuge systems for emergency evacuation. The security system includes access control, CCTV, intrusion detection, and an intelligent International Communications (InterComms) system which enables live communications with an infinite number of doors/master stations with no distance limitations, and can be fully integrated with other IP-based systems.

The fire and security systems are fully networked and integrated into an innovative front-end graphics system that enables Diageo’s on-site security staff to monitor and manage all system components in a single platform. The platform has been specifically designed to protect against cyber threats. This resilient solution has archiving and failover technologies that provide business continuity across a variety of outages.

Customised and integrated solution

John Baillie, Head of UK Sales at Evolution, says JWPS is a prime example of Evolution’s capabilities to deliver integrated systems, no matter the size or complexities involved, “JWPS is one of Edinburgh’s most popular attractions, located in a prestigious location and its status as a listed building meant we had to be mindful of several potential risks and structural restrictions."

From the initial drawings and design phase, through to the commissioning of the new systems, we are proud to have been involved in this project, delivering a complete fire and security system tailored to meet the specific needs of the client.”

Download PDF version Download PDF version

In case you missed it

Security predictions 2025: AI, drones, and retail innovations
Security predictions 2025: AI, drones, and retail innovations

With the year 2025 stretched out before us, there are many techniques one could use to predict what will happen in the new year. You might analyse historical data and analyse futur...

2024 was a big year for M&A in the security market
2024 was a big year for M&A in the security market

Big news on the mergers and acquisitions (M&A) front is closing out 2024, a year in which several shifts changed the face of the physical security manufacturer community. Ann...

Anviz Global expands palm vein tech for security
Anviz Global expands palm vein tech for security

The pattern of veins in the hand contains unique information that can be used for identity. Blood flowing through veins in the human body can absorb light waves of specific wavelen...

Quick poll
What is the most significant challenge facing smart building security today?