Markets and trends
Smiths Detection produces equipment for customers in the air transportation, ports and borders, critical infrastructure, military and emergency responder sectors, adapting the technologies specifically for these markets.
Demand for detection equipment in three of its principal markets, transportation, ports and borders and critical infrastructure (estimated at more than £1.6bn) is forecast to continue to grow at almost 7% per annum in the near-term because of ongoing geo-political unrest and the terrorist and criminal threats it creates.
The changing nature of the detection business sector is resulting in a growing volume of smaller contracts and fewer major programmes. Smiths Detection is actively adjusting its operations to meet the requirements of this ‘run-rate’ business model which benefits from lower volatility than areas which are more government controlled. It is also placing more emphasis on aftermarket sales, enhancing the level of customer service to meet opportunities arising from the extensive installed base of detection equipment across most regional markets.
The heavily regulated transportation sector is the largest market for the division. Rising passenger volumes are resulting in new airport investment, especially in the Middle East and South East Asia. This, together with continuing security threats, a strong replacement cycle and globalisation of trade, boosting freight volumes, is expected to continue to support market growth. In addition more stringent requirements from major regulatory bodies will increase the sophistication of security equipment.
In the ports and borders market, demand for detection equipment is expected to rise to address a variety of threats as governments become increasingly concerned about cross-border security involving the smuggling of explosives, weapons and radiological materials, while continuing to recognise the strong revenue-generating potential from contraband detection.
Overall demand in the highly fragmented critical infrastructure market continues to grow strongly. Governments and other organisations are seeking to protect their assets within current terror threat levels and increasing levels of perceived risk.
Where we operate
Our eight manufacturing centres are concentrated in North America, Germany, France, Russia and the UK.
We sell to over 150 countries around the world either direct or through third-party distributors.
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