Mitie has been awarded a new multi-year security contract with Asda to deliver services across over 1,100 locations nationwide including Asda Superstores, Supermarkets, Living and Express stores. This contract further strengthens Mitie’s position as the UK’s number one provider of security across the Food Retail Market, and builds on Mitie’s existing relationship with the retailer, having already provided security across Asda’s Logistics Estate since July 2019.
Leveraging its expertise in advanced security intelligence, Mitie will support Asda in transitioning to a data-driven, outcome-focused security model which places the safety of both customers and colleagues at the forefront. Key features of this approach include flexible guarding which enables security resources to be dynamically allocated to the locations most in need, and the introduction of store detectives to implement targeted strategies against theft, based on data insight. Asda stores will also be connected to a dedicated 24/7 central operations hub providing remote monitoring services across the estate. These measures have been designed to create safer communities and responsive environments across Asda’s nationwide network.
As part of the new contract, more than 2,000 colleagues will transfer to Mitie under TUPE where they will benefit from advanced Security Industry Authority (SIA) training, and specialised CCTV training which will equip them with the skills, confidence and knowledge to deliver modern, intelligence-led security solutions. Additionally, Mitie will offer colleagues a host of industry-leading benefits including free Mitie shares, 24/7 access to a free multi-language virtual GP service, life assurance, and an Employee Assistance Programme that provides readily available practical and mental wellbeing support.
Mitie will also use its sustainability expertise, being one of the UK’s leading electric vehicle (EV) fleet operators, to support Asda’s environmental ambitions, integrating an initial 67 EVs into the contract.
Jason Towse, Managing Director Business Services, Mitie, said:
“We are proud to be strengthening our partnership with Asda, supporting them as they advance their security approaches to crack down on escalating retail crime and enhance store safety for both colleagues and customers. We look forward to welcoming new colleagues and equipping them with specialised training and development opportunities so that collaboratively, we can work towards creating safer communities for everyone.”
Liz Evans, Chief Commercial Officer Non-food & Retail, Asda, said:
“Like many retailers, we have seen a sharp rise in retail crime, with more than 30,000 incidents of verbal abuse and physical assaults recorded in our stores last year. The safety of our colleagues and customers is our absolute priority, and we are taking decisive action to strengthen protection across our estate.
“We are investing in a partnership with Mitie to implement a comprehensive, professionally trained and technology enhanced security presence in our stores. This includes SIA licensed security guards, undercover detectives, rapid response units and dedicated teams for higher risk locations, all supported by a 24/7 central operations hub to ensure swift, coordinated action whenever it’s needed.”
Notes to editors
About Mitie: The Future of High Performing Places
Founded in 1987, Mitie employs 84,000 colleagues and is the leading technology-led Facilities Management, Transformation and Compliance company in the UK. We are a trusted partner to around 3,000 customers across the public and private sectors, working with them to transform their built estates, and the lived experience for their colleagues and customers, as well as providing data-driven insights to inform better decision-making.
In each of our core services of engineering (hard services) and security and hygiene (soft services) we hold market leadership positions. We also deliver transformational projects in the areas of power and grid connections, building fit outs & modernisation, decarbonisation, fire safety & security and telecoms infrastructure, alongside compliance capabilities in fire safety & security and environmental services. Our sector expertise includes central government, critical national infrastructure, defence, financial services, healthcare & life sciences, local government & education, retail & logistics, manufacturing & media and transport & aviation.
We hold industry-leading ESG credentials, including a place on the CDP Climate change A List, and we have received multiple awards including Best Low Carbon Solution and Net Zero Carbon Strategy of the year. We have validated science-based targets that support our ambitions to reach Net Zero. We have been recognised as a UK Top Employer for the seventh consecutive year and Most Admired Company in the Support Services sector. We are also ranked 10th in the Top 100 Apprenticeship employers and ninth in the Inclusive Top 50 UK Employers list. Find out more at www.mitie.com