Messe Essen GmbH/Security- Experts & Thought Leaders

Highly satisfied visitors, a significant 25 percent increase in exhibitors, and countless successful discussions at the trade fair stand: After four intensive days, the pioneering trade fair for the security industry, Security Essen, has come to a successful close. With more than 500 exhibitors from 36 nations and over 20,000 trade visitors - an increase of 17 percent - from 86 nations, the trade fair offered a comprehensive platform for innovations and future trends relating to security solutions for companies, private households, and public spaces. Security Essen 2024 “This strong response impressively underscores the importance of Security Essen as an indispensable platform for the international security industry,” says Oliver P.Kuhrt, CEO of Messe Essen. “This is particularly evident from the fact that decision-makers were here on site. Three out of four visitors are significantly involved in procurement and purchasing decisions in their company - a high-caliber target group.” The exhibitors The demand for security solutions is constantly increasing, which was felt in the exhibition halls The exhibitors – ranging from global market pioneers, niche players, hidden champions, associations, and institutions to start-ups - reported excellent conversations and high-quality contacts at their exhibition stands. The demand for security solutions is constantly increasing, which was felt in the exhibition halls. This also reflects the sector's growing economic significance. In Germany alone, turnover in the security industry has grown by over nine percent more than 31 billion euros within a year. Cloud-based access solutions “We noticed this drive at our stand - especially with the Salto world premiere for cloud-based access solutions,” says Axel Schmidt, Chairman of the Security Essen Advisory Board, Managing Director of Salto Systems, and Chairman of the Board of the BHE Federal Association for Security Technology. “In its 50thanniversary year, Security Essen has once again reaffirmed its position as the pioneering trade fair. Whether it's access control, perimeter protection, video surveillance, or burglary protection: all exhibition areas showcased trends in system integration and AI support.” Stand-alone solutions AI provides support in data analysis, but also in security - for example during patrols Stand-alone solutions are evolving into open products with many interfaces for integrating additional technologies such as alarm systems, and video or fire alarm systems. AI provides support in data analysis, but also in security - for example during patrols. Robot dogs that can also record images, detect gases, or find holes in fences were on display. The focus also extended to personal protection. For example, exhibitors showed personal protective equipment, including discreet sweaters that can withstand knife attacks. Visitors praised the innovations and the supporting programme  The majority of visitors at Security Essen came from installation companies, security services, and industry, but also from the construction industry and public authorities. They were primarily interested in solutions relating to access control, video surveillance, intrusion, security services, access and entry barriers, and mechanical security technology. Trade visitors were highly satisfied with the innovations on display and the supporting programme. With numerous events, the trade fair offered them real added value: Drones are becoming increasingly important in the security industry. At the first European Drone Conference, experts discussed innovative applications and safety aspects of drone technology. Spectacular explosive attacks on financial institutions have made headlines in the past. The New Banks and Savings Banks Day showed how the institutions can protect themselves. There were over 400 registrations for the training and further education day organised by the BDSW Federal Association of the Security Industry. Pupils, students, trainees, and retrainees came to find out about career opportunities in the security industry. The DNS Digital Networking Security Conference focussed on pressing digital security issues. The presentation by intelligence and crime analyst Mark T. Hofmann, who provided insights into the psychology of cybercrime, was particularly well attended. Exhibitors and their products took centre stage at the security experts' forum. The Outstanding Security Performance Awards OSPAs honoured particularly outstanding achievements for the security industry.  Already strong interest in Security Essen 2026 Already, nine out of ten visitors and 86 percent of exhibitors have confirmed their participation 91 percent of visitors praised their visit to the trade fair and recommended pioneering trade fairs for the security industry to others. Already, nine out of ten visitors and 86 percent of exhibitors have confirmed their participation in the next Security Essen, which will take place from September 22 to 25, 2026, at Messe Essen.  Company participation “These figures are a compliment, confirmation, and order for us at the same time,” says Oliver P. Kuhrt, CEO of Messe Essen. “We are delighted that during the ongoing trade fair, companies such as Hekatron, NSCSicherheitstechnik, Advancis Software & Services, Deister Electronic, ABI-Sicherheitssysteme, Rohde & Schwarz, and Ajax Systems have already confirmed their participation for Security Essen 2026.” “The industry needs Security Essen” Uli Schunk, Head of Marketing at Advancis, “Our conclusion is very positive, we had many great conversations and more visitors at our stand than last time." "There were many concrete project inquiries - not only from Germany but also from other European countries. We experienced the fair as consistently well-attended, and the atmosphere was excellent.” Scope of Security Essen Thomas Taferner, Head of Sales and Marketing at Telenot Electronic, “The industry needs Security Essen - both now and in the future. It is the only trade fair where the full range of security technology can be experienced." "We are very satisfied with the number of visitors this year and the response to our presence at the fair. Our stand was almost always full and the trade audience was highly qualified." Great feedback "We had many visitors from installation companies, but also large corporations, authorities, and municipalities, including many international representatives. We are looking forward to Security Essen 2026 and have already booked our booth space again.” Andreas Diekmann, CEO of NSC Sicherheitstechnik GmbH, "We are very satisfied with our presence, received great feedback on our booth and had many high-quality conversations. Our booth party was fantastic! We thank all our guests and look forward to Security 2026!”

Global crises are intensifying, conflicts and tensions are increasing worldwide and critical infrastructures are more at risk than ever before. Many current challenges drastically demonstrate the extent to which the global security order is under pressure. These multi-dimensional challenges require new approaches and strong partnerships to safeguard free societies in Germany and Europe. This is where the Euro Defence Expo comes in, celebrating its premiere at Messe Essen from September 22 to 25, 2026.  Euro Defence Expo It offers a comprehensive platform for decision-makers, experts, and innovators to explore the latest advancements in security and defence technology. Dr. Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann MEP, Chair of the EU Defence Committee emphasised the importance of this event at its launch, "In light of Russia's brutal aggression against Ukraine, Europe's ability to defend itself together in the future is of central importance." "These challenges will be addressed at Euro Defence Expo. Industry, research, and politics will come together in the heart of Europe to work together on solutions." Rethinking protection and security Euro Defence Expo will take place parallel to Security Essen, the trade fair for the security industry Euro Defence Expo will take place parallel to Security Essen, the trade fair for the security industry. Oliver P. Kuhrt, CEO of Messe Essen, explains, "Given the current threat situation, we have to rethink protection and security." "By combining Euro Defence Expo with Security Essen, we have developed a unique and dynamic event showcasing both military and civilian security innovations, alongside a high-profile conference. This enables our society to be well-prepared for future challenges." Focus on the Total Defence approach This concept integrates all social actors to protect democracy, security, and freedom against any threat - from hybrid activities to cyberattacks to open military confrontation. Various opportunities and forums for exchange between politics, industry, and military users of security and defence technologies are therefore planned. Unique format and strong exhibitors Another emphasis will be on cyber security and the defence against threats from cyber and information space Germany's security and defence industry is a key pillar of national security and an innovative pioneer in equipping land forces. Euro Defence Expo will therefore focus on the latest trends and developments in the land dimension across all land-based military capabilities.  Another emphasis will be on cyber security and the defence against threats from cyber and information space. The format of the new defence trade fair is convincing the industry. Heckler & Koch and Deutsche Risikoberatung are among the first exhibitors to confirm participation. German defence industry Andreas Schnautz, CFO of H&K AG and Managing Director of Heckler & KochGmbH, "With Euro Defence Expo, Messe Essen is sending out the right signal for our times." "The German defence industry is firmly anchored among the world pioneers, it is efficient and highly innovative. The Russian war of aggression has once again made it clear that the German defence industry must be part of our country's security architecture. I am delighted that in Germany, we are now taking account of this outstanding strategic importance of our industry with our own armaments trade fair." Targeting key industry decision-makers Euro Defence Expo is designed to attract decision-makers from the German armed forces and allied armed forces Euro Defence Expo is designed to attract decision-makers from the German armed forces and allied armed forces, decision-makers from national and international procurement organisations, representatives of defence ministries, government, and ministerial representatives, politicians, representatives of the police, and other relevant security and law enforcement agencies as well as institutes and technology companies.  The event will specifically address decision-makers. Military, science, and industry Oliver P. Kuhrt, CEO of Messe Essen, "We are currently working intensively to ensure that the JAPCC Joint Air and Space Power Conference takes place during the trade fair."  "This would allow participants to attend this high-level military conference while also exploring the latest defence technologies at the Euro Defence Expo. In this way, we create a unique platform for politics, the military, science, and industry." Strong partnership with CPM The Euro Defence Expo also adds value through its accompanying conference The Euro Defence Expo also adds value through its accompanying conference. This event with renowned experts from the industry is organised by the trade fair's partner, CPM GmbH. It already successfully organises RÜ.Net in Koblenz and operates the pioneering industry portal Defence Network.  "This collaboration means that Euro Defence Expo is not just an exhibition, but a central location for knowledge exchange and networking. The combination of top-class experts, innovative solutions, and intensive technical discussions offers exhibitors and visitors a real benefit that goes far beyond a visit to the trade fair," explains Kuhrt. A holistic approach to defence and security Tobias Ehlke, owner & publisher of cpm GmbH - Defence Network, "Together with Security Essen, Euro Defence Expo focuses on national defence. This approach is unique in Europe." "The planning and implementation of the associated congress is the core business of CPM TEAMS. As a specialist publisher for defence, security, and military medicine, we also take a holistic view of the areas of security and defence. I am convinced that the Euro Defence Expo will be successful and establish itself in the community. We are a proud partner and look forward to a successful collaboration."

Over 500 exhibitors present their innovations at Messe Essen from September 17 to 20. The topic of security is more topical than ever. Whether cybercrime, burglary protection or access control-the demand in industry, companies and private households for individual and tailor-made security solutions is constantly increasing. As the pioneering trade fair, Security Essen brings the security industry together and showcases the industry's innovations and further developments with around 500 exhibitors from September 17 to 20, 2024. At the same time, it will be celebrating its 50th anniversary. What began in 1974 with 105 exhibitors and around 1,000 visitors has long since developed into an international success story. Number of innovations “Today, Security Essen is the comprehensive platform and indispensable meeting place for the security industry. Thanks to our continuous further development, it always keeps its finger on the pulse of the times. This year, too, visitors can look forward to a number of innovations,” reveals Project Manager Julia Jacob: The first European Drone Conference will celebrate its premiere on September 19 and 20. It will shed light on innovative applications and security aspects of drone technology. Spectacular explosive attacks on financial institutions have made headlines in the past. The new Banks and Savings Banks Day on September 19 will show how institutions can protect themselves. For the first time, the OSPAs will be presented at Security Essen. The Outstanding Security Performance Awards will be presented on September 18 to honour outstanding achievements by companies and individuals from the security industry. Extensive showcase of innovations Trade visitors from all over the world can expect an extensive range of products and services in the exhibition halls. Around 500 exhibitors from 36 nations will be presenting their solutions in these subject areas: Access/mechatronics/mechanics/systems Perimeter Fire/Intrusion/Systems Digital Networking Security Security Services Civil protection and civil defence Special protection vehicles Video This includes market pioneers as well as hidden champions and niche players. At the same time, Security Essen offers newly founded companies the opportunity to make contacts in the global market and to promote and market products made in Germany internationally.  Impressive market data Impressive market data shows how strong the need for innovative keys in the security industry At the “Young Innovators” joint stand, start-ups will show, among other things, how AI robots take over surveillance tasks, which furniture makes prisons look secure and stylish at the same time or how users can protect their passwords. Impressive market data shows just how strong the demand for innovative solutions is in the security industry: In Germany alone, turnover rose by 10.85% from 2022 to 2023 to 31.27 billion euros. Extensive supporting program rounds off the trade fair Security Essen offers special added value for all trade visitors with special theme days and top-class specialist presentations. In addition to the Drone Conference, the Day of Banks and Savings Banks and the OSPAS Awards, these events promise extra input: The Training and Further Education Day on September 17 is aimed at young talents and specialists. The Federal Association of the Security Industry (BDSW) will also be honoring the best trainees on this day. The DNS Digital Networking Security Conference on September 17 and 18 will address pressing digital security issues. Among other things, intelligence and crime analyst Mark T. Hoffmann will provide insights into the psychology of cybercrime in his presentation “Profiling Hackers”. Exhibitors and their trade fair innovations will be on stage at the security experts forum on all days of the trade fair. Partners of the theme days are the German Federal Association of the Security Industry BDSW, the International Association of the Physical Security Industry ESSA, the Confederation of European Security Services CoESS, Datakontext and kes. The presentations will take place directly in the exhibition halls and are already included in the ticket. Secure tickets online Security Essen will be held at Messe Essen from September 17 to 20, 2024. The exhibition halls will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Tuesday to Thursday and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday. Tickets are available online at a price of 48 euros.

Security Essen 2018, held in Messe Essen, Germany, promised attendees a newly modernised trade show with a simplified layout and more interactive experience. Compared to previous years, halls were reorganised by technology area, with aisles laid out to make more direct pathways for attendees. The fair welcomed 950 exhibitors and more than 36,000 trade visitors from the global security market. Several manufacturers mentioned that footfall had been lighter than expected, but that the show had delivered on its promise to welcome more international visitors, in particular from the Middle East region. Exhibitors also grumbled about higher costs for booth space. Key security industry exhibitors Exhibitors expressed concern that the absence of key players reduced overall foot traffic Exhibitors praised the bigger aisles, which made it easier for visitors to navigate the show. However, some were unsure whether this was due to a better layout or simply because the show was missing key exhibitors. Notably absent were access control provider Dormakaba, security solutions company Honeywell, and surveillance providers Geutebruck and Dallmeier. Exhibitors expressed concern that the absence of key players reduced overall foot traffic. Security Essen hosted a particularly strong access control presence. Halls 2 and 3 were home to companies from across the access control and mechatronics spectrum. Sponsorship by EVVA covered the west entrance. The locking systems manufacturer, which celebrates its 100th anniversary next year, boasted significant floorspace. Exhibitors were pleased with the large access and locking presence, commenting that London-based IFSEC International tends to be dominated by video surveillance providers. EVVA, which celebrates its 100th anniversary next year, boasted significant floorspace Deep learning and artificial intelligence The push toward artificial intelligence (AI) in physical security continues, although the tone at Security Essen seemed to be shifting beyond hype and more toward how the technology can actually add value. For example, Hikvision’s cameras boasted more intelligence and processing power, and the company emphasised faster-paced product cycles. Customers ultimately do not buy AI – they buy benefits and solutions VIVOTEK embraced artificial intelligence as the biggest trend in the industry. The company demonstrated its latest deep learning technology for crowd detection applications. For Dahua, artificial intelligence allows users to easily search metadata in a video, including age and behaviour. Dahua demonstrated its solution for the transportation market, which is able to learn if a bus or train driver is falling asleep at the controls. However, some manufacturers chose not to focus on artificial intelligence. Representatives from Brivo and Eagle Eye Networks highlighted that customers ultimately do not buy AI – they buy benefits and solutions. Historically, video analytics were oversold and underdelivered, and the same could happen to AI if the term is overused in marketing security solutions. VIVOTEK embraced artificial intelligence as the biggest trend in the industry The German market & GDPR While the fair welcomed an increase in international visitors, many stands offered a distinctly German flavour. Exhibitors catered to German customers’ preference for data protection and high levels of privacy. Visitors were welcomed to the show by banners from Genetec, emblazoned with the slogan “Privacy matters… So, remember to forget me.” The video security provider’s stand demonstrated this concept more tangibly, via its Privacy Protector Module.  The surveillance software, which is certified with the European Privacy Seal (EuroPriSe), monitors events while automatically pixelating people and vehicles in real time. If an incident occurs, an authorised operator can securely access the unaltered video. Visitors were welcomed to the show by banners from Genetec Other companies also acknowledged issues of privacy and cybersecurity. Hikvision noted that Europe is more regulated, which limits the implementation of the company’s products compared to those used in China. Dahua emphasised that its data for the German market is stored in Frankfurt to meet demands for data protection. IDIS made a point of saying there are no backdoors to their products. The deep learning products are easy to use and 96% accurate, says the company. FLIR has developed a cybersecurity hardening document, and strives to be transparent about cyber issues, including a web landing page where customers can raise any concerns. Vanderbilt is also pushing the cloud as a way forward with its ACT365 cloud-based access and video solution. Users are not intimidated by the cloud anymore since we all use it in our personal lives, says the company. Also on the access control side, EVVA were clear on the security of their AirKey mobile access system, which uses technology based on internet banking, double encryption and high-quality hardware. As well as demonstrating its SAROS thermal camera, FLIR strived for cybersecurity concerns to be addressed by customers Taking a broader view Nedap views security as being about allowing people to focus on their daily lives and work, safe in the knowledge that security is being taken care of. At the show, Nedap launched its new slogan ‘Security for Life’, stating that “true security is when you don’t have to think about it”. Nedap’s global client program represents a long-term commitment to projects. They are having more discussions with clients about risk management through standardisation and centralised policy.Solutions – as opposed to products – were also a focus at Security Essen, as at IFSEC before it Clients remain with Nedap because they keep investing in the platform, constantly updating the code and simplifying it to improve scalability for organisations, says the company. Nedap had one of the few double-decker booths at Security Essen. Solutions – as opposed to products – were also a focus at Security Essen, as at IFSEC before it. HID Global touted their extensive use of partnerships to provide solutions. SeeTec highlighted their move away from products to a more solution-based approach. FLIR, perhaps best known as a thermal camera company, were pushing their solutions approach to markets including intelligent traffic, smart city, video management and PSIMs.  Nedap had one of the few double-decker booths at Security Essen Vertical markets in focus As vertical markets go, retail was big, and several players were offering some type of retail solution. Retail – along with banking, finance and transportation – was among Hikvision’s vertical markets of choice. Dahua's new panoramic cameras stitch together the image inside the camera instead of on the server SeeTec’s retail solution combines EAS with business intelligence and heat mapping. Dahua’s retail offerings include people counting and emotion detection, which can correlate with weather data, for example. Genetec also showcased a range of retail solutions. Technology improvements announced at Security Essen include FLIR's more robust FB6 series thermal line, Promise Technology's SMARTBOOST technology improved playback performance, and Videotec's cameras with better night performance. The extended 50m range of Optex's intrusion detection laser sensor reduces the need for cameras. Dahua's new panoramic cameras stitch together the image inside the camera instead of on the server. The Hanwha Techwin booth featured Korean flags and a “Korean at heart” motto to set the company apart Signs of the U.S. congressional ban There were signs at Security Essen of an impact of the recent U.S. ban on use of Hikvision and Dahua equipment in government installations, although both big Chinese manufacturers maintained a high profile at the German show. For example, the Hanwha Techwin booth featured Korean flags and a “Korean at heart” motto to set the company apart. Chinese camera manufacturer Uniview were keen to stress that they are not owned by Chinese government (neither is Dahua). Uniview’s all-IP camera line offers high resolution, low-light, multisensor and fisheye options, and AI software provides facial recognition, object detection, and fire and smoke detection at the edge. The company aims to increase its global presence with more international branch offerings and international factories.

Newly modernised halls with lots of daylight will house hundreds of exhibitions and conference events at the upcoming Security Essen 2018 at Messe Essen, Germany. A new layout and hall numbering system will be unfamiliar to past attendees but promises to simplify the experience as it brings together attendees and exhibitors. European physical security market Security Essen is an international trade fair, but the emphasis is more on German, Austrian and Swiss companies. In all, Security Essen will feature 1,000 exhibitors from 40 nations. The trade fair has more of a continental European “flavour” compared to IFSEC, which focuses more on the U.K market. At the last Security Essen in 2016, organisers reported about 40,000 visitors including conference participants, VIP guests, members of various delegations and journalists. Security Essen 2018 has more of a continental European “flavour” compared to IFSEC, which focuses more on the U.K market  “This year, we have sharpened the profile of Security Essen,” says Oliver P. Kuhrt, CEO of Messe Essen, a trade fair, congress and event organiser with its own exhibition grounds. “The trade fair has become considerably more digital, more modern and more interactive. Due to the optimised hall layout, we are offering our exhibitors and visitors the best possible experience with short paths and direct communication.” Newly modernised Messe Essen The newly modernised site of Security Essen will encompass eight halls, newly renumbered and with the subject areas reorganised, too. Visitors will find Services in Hall 1; Access, Mechanatronics, Mechanics and Systems in Halls 2 and 3 and the Galeria; Perimeter Protection in Hall 3; Video in Halls 5 and 7; and Fire, Intrusion and Systems in Halls 6 and 7. A helpful smart phone app, downloadable free from the Google Play Store (Android) or the Apple App Store (iOS), will be available two weeks before the event and include a show floor plan; the exhibitor list with booth numbers and contact information; and an overview of the supporting programme. A separate hall – Hall 8 – will house new Cyber Security and Economic Security categories. Cyber Security Conference At the new Cyber Security Conference, located prominently at the new East Entrance, experts will share their knowledge about the more pressing challenges and potential of cybersecurity. The programme opens and closes on 25 and 28 September with the main topic “Opportunities and Risks of Cyber Security”. On 26 September, discussions and lectures will centre on “Entry, Admission, Access: Identification Options”.A helpful smart phone app, downloadable free will be available two weeks before the event and include a show floor plan On 27 September, the topic will be smart homes and focus on “Connected Building, Security in the Buildings of the Future”. Speakers will include the president of Germany’s Federal Office for Information Security, who will address cybersecurity as a challenge for politics, business and society. The fair organises the conference in cooperation with the BHE Federal Association of Security Technology and the technical support of the Federal Office for Information Security. In Hall 8, a new Public Security Forum will enable visitors to experience digital security technologies for public spaces from the areas of sensors/IoT, cyber security and surveillance. The products and solutions will be installed in four different building scenarios (town hall, school, hospital and library) and it will be possible to test them extensively. The forum, including lectures and discussions, will target municipal decision makers and planners of public spaces. Comprehensive programme A Security Expert Forum in Hall 2 will present a continuous programme with more than 90 presentations during the period of the fair. Visitors will obtain information and solution ideas about all six subject areas covered at the fair, and the programme will begin with a keynote lecture each morning and finish with a live demonstration in the evening. On the first day of the fair (25 September), Security Essen’s Career Forum will introduce retrainees, students, trainees and graduates to companies from the security industry. Targeted and professional communication will be established between companies and job applicants to facilitate making contacts, developing networks, and filling actual vacancies. Thursday (27 September) will be observed as Fire Prevention Day, and a Drone Course will be provided each day in Hall 7. One day admission to Security Essen is €41; a four-day ticket is €105. Advance sale tickets are discounted.

There was another big trade show last week –  the four-day Security Essen event in Germany. I didn’t attend, but several of my SourceSecurity.com colleagues report it was a busy show from start to finish, with the halls devoted to video/CCTV and access control dominating the show. The other halls were quieter, with smaller stands. Hot topics included big data, machine learning, mobile credentials, storage and an emphasis on solutions (rather than products). The exhibit hall was a bit of a maze, but attendees managed to find their way to the various stands. Three big companies – Bosch, Siemens and Honeywell – were conspicuously absent from their usual large role at Security Essen, and there was mixed feedback about the impact of their absence on the larger show. Without three gigantic stands to concentrate the footfall, attendees seemed more spread out than clustered. Hands-on, technical displays Hands-on displays with plenty of technical detail were the norm, encouraging attendees to interact with the products. The ASSA ABLOY stand, huge as always, reflected the continuing popularity of key systems in the German, Swiss and Austrian markets. ASSA ABLOY’s Yale also featured a home automation zone. Hands-on displays with plentyof technical detail were thenorm, encouraging attendeesto interact with the products Hikvision envisions cameras coming very soon with “deep learning” capabilities. These cameras, combined with big data applications, are the future of smart traffic systems, for example. Deep learning systems will replace traditional licence plate recognition (ANPR) and analyse electronic data about cars, rather than relying on number plates, says the company. Hikvision also highlighted multi-sensor cameras that can cover a large area and reduce the cost-per-channel – they have big projects in China and Southeast Asia. Hikvision’s privacy masking functionality is popular in Europe because of privacy regulations. Fujifilm demonstrated its impressive zoom lens series, featuring 60x zoom, long focal length and full HD quality, for use in airports and perimeter protection. Stabilisation is important with zoom because even slight movement can have a large effect, says the company. In Fujifilm lenses, the stabilisation is optical-based (in the lens), rather than software-based. Another stand that drew attention was Nedap, where a tiered seating area was provided for visitors to view video projected on a back wall. New laws in the Netherlands and France require that no information can go outside government buildings, thus requiring closed security systems, according to Nedap. It’s a trend likely to follow in the European Union, with similar laws potentially impacting hospitals and banking as well as government, says Nedap. This is why they are working with partner AET Europe to ensure that encrypted communications are secure between all elements of an IT-based access control system. Solutions – not just products The need to provide solutions rather than “just products” was a repeated theme. One solutions provider is MOBOTIX, which highlighted a new corporate design with fresher and more unified branding. The solutions approach includes analytics and people counting embedded for inventory optimisation and business intelligence. MOBOTIX is releasing new plug-and-play bundles to combat the perception that the company’s technology is not easy to use. There is also a 4K bundle with NAS (network attached) storage – all preconfigured; just power it up and it will run. MOBOTIX is releasing new plug-and-play bundles tocombat the perception thatthe company’s technologyis not easy to use Sony also offered solutions, including their intelligent approach to 4K, which they say overcomes traditional concerns with the higher-resolution technology. Sony also displayed “glass-to-glass” technology, streaming 4K cameras directly to a screen with no PC in between. Even with the company shifting to end-to-end solutions, their cameras are still at the core of the portfolio, including an accent on low-light and changing light conditions. Adding ROI was another hot topic for exhibitors. MOBOTIX emphasised its process monitoring capabilities, as did Geutebrück. VIVOTEK highlighted combining a people-counting solution with other retail data for business intelligence. Contrary to the focus on solutions was LTV Europe, a video company that keeps the attention on products. LTV emphasises personal service and a fresh approach rather than competing with bigger providers. Focus on storage and automation The themes my colleagues heard at Security Essen were not unlike those we heard recently at ASIS and earlier this year at IFSEC and even ISC West. More companies are looking to expand into non-traditional applications beyond security, such as asset tracking and logistics/delivery. Another example: Sony suggested using video to monitor rivers and lakes water levels for flood warnings. Quantum is keeping itsattention on storage, whileaddressing the IT department’sneed for data protection Quantum is keeping its attention on storage, while addressing the IT department’s need for data protection. The new StorNext scalable storage system, which can handle 4K, integrates various tiers of storage appropriate to varying workflows and business needs. For example, retrieval can be faster for more valuable data, thus maximising value while minimising the overall cost. Allegion is rolling out products that combine electronic and mechanical locks from subsidiary SimonsVoss and the Allegion portfolios. Allegion wants to position itself as electronic access control expert. Paxton highlighted a building automation system, Paxton net10, which is aimed at small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and works on mobile credentials as well as cards. They’re looking to build this kind of technology into future products. Another company, AxxonSoft, is pushing strongly to establish its brand in the United States – something to watch in 2017. SALTO also highlighted cloud-based mobile access control: They have developed a Keys as a Service system, SALTO KS, which allows businesses to grant access remotely while viewing a video of the door. Four busy days in Germany Security Essen is an international show, but the emphasis was on German, Austrian and Swiss companies and larger companies targeting those markets. There was more of a continental Europe “flavour” compared to IFSEC’s focus on the U.K. market. Four days is a long time for a trade show – my feet are shot after two and a half days! But my colleagues agree it was time well spent, if for nothing else than getting to watch an 8-foot-tall robot dance around Hall 3.