The Cost of UK SMEs Ignoring Security Systems For Businesses
The Cost of UK SMEs Ignoring Security Systems For Businesses
When you think about business security, there’s a type of threat that many UK small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are ignoring, and the consequences can be severely damaging if ignored. The security we are referring to is thorough and complete security solutions for SMEs.
According to a recent report, two-thirds of UK SMEs lack a comprehensive physical security strategy. That’s an alarming figure when you consider what’s at stake: property, assets, sensitive data, operational continuity, and staff safety.
How Your Business Could Be At Risk Without Tailored Security Solutions
Whether you’re operating a manufacturing unit, tech firm, distribution centre, engineering workshop, or professional services office, your site may contain assets worth tens or hundreds of thousands of pounds. From servers to specialist machinery and confidential records, the risks are real.
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), there were over 125,000 non-domestic burglaries in England and Wales in 2023. Many of these incidents targeted warehouses, industrial estates, business parks and office building – a variety of businesses that don’t fall under the retail sector.
Furthermore, the British Security Industry Association (BSIA) notes a growing concern among insurers about inadequate physical security at SME premises, which could increasingly impact claims and premiums in 2025 and beyond.
Five Overlooked Areas of Physical Security
Many SMEs mistakenly believe that a basic alarm or an ageing CCTV system is enough. But modern threats from break-ins and vandalism to internal theft and unauthorised access require layered and intelligent protection.
Here are five areas where SMEs often fall short:
- Outdated Security Systems
Alarm systems or CCTV installed over five years ago may not meet current standards or have the functionality needed for today’s risks. Without real-time alerts, remote monitoring, or high-definition recording, their effectiveness is limited.
- No Access Control Measures
Open doors or shared keys are a major vulnerability. Without secure access control systems such as video intercoms, biometric scanners or fob entry it’s difficult to manage who enters your premises and when.
- Poor Perimeter Defences
Intruder alarms and other security solutions that control unauthorised access are often overlooked – especially in business parks or rural locations. Yet, these are the first line of defence in properly deterring unwanted individuals on your premises.
- Lack of Security Integration
Many SMEs have standalone systems (like CCTV that doesn’t link to alarms or access control), resulting in poor coordination and slower response times. Bourne End provide state of the art access control systems to regulate access to your business.
- No Risk Assessment or Security Policy
Without a formal review of your premises, vulnerabilities often go unnoticed. A tailored plan is essential for identifying weak points, prioritising investment and maintaining compliance.
The Real Cost of Inaction
A physical breach can have devastating consequences. According to the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), the average cost of crime to a small business is £3,986 per incident – including repair costs, lost equipment, business disruption and increased insurance premiums.
However, that figure doesn’t account for the hidden costs:
- Downtime while systems are repaired.
- Missed deadlines or lost contracts.
- A drop in employee morale.
- Reputational damage.
In industries where client confidentiality or regulatory compliance is key such as legal, medical, or financial services, a break-in can also trigger data protection breaches and legal consequences.
Why SMEs Should Rethink Security Solutions in 2025
There’s a growing recognition in the security sector that SMEs are now among the most vulnerable to physical threats, not just because they’re seen as “easy targets,” but because many haven’t adapted their protection to match today’s risks.
With advances in technology, security systems are no longer limited to passive measures. Smart surveillance, motion-triggered alerts and 24/7 remote monitoring now make it possible to prevent incidents before they escalate.
A 2024 survey by IFSEC Global found that 72% of UK SMEs who had upgraded their physical security systems in the last 18 months saw a measurable reduction in incidents, relating to theft, trespassing or unauthorised access.
How BEHSS Can Assist In Safeguarding Your Business Efficiently
At Bourne End Hardware & Security Solutions (BEHSS), we understand the unique challenges facing SMEs in the UK. We specialise in designing and installing tailored security systems for small-medium sized businesses. Whether you require high-security access control and monitored CCTV or advanced intruder alarm systems.
We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Every business is different, and that’s why we start with a free, no-obligation site assessment, helping you understand your risks and what solutions will best protect your premises, staff and operations.
Protect What Matters Before It’s Too Late
If your business has grown, changed, or moved sites in the last few years, your old security setup may no longer be fit for purpose.
Don’t wait until you experience a break-in or loss to act, by contacting BEHSS today to book your free security audit you will receive expert advice on modern, integrated protection personally tailored for your SME.
Click here to schedule your consultation today.