AJ-Security

Through the business spotlight, I have been interacting with businesses that I would not normally interact with. Learning about what goes into running these businesses is always interesting and this one is no different. I had the opportunity to ask Adrian some questions about AJ-Security and you will find his answers below.

Can you tell us about your business and how it got started?

It was decided to launch my business in August 2017, going live in January 2018 following an incident.

What inspired you to open your business in Cumbria?

It was an overnight decision following a good friend losing their life in an unprovoked knife attack.

What makes your business unique compared to others in your industry?

There are other companies in Cumbria, especially West Cumbria that provide security services however it is my passion to protect people, places and premises that drives us to succeed in reassuring residents and businesses.

What products or services do you offer, and who are they for?

We provide male and female security guards, door supervisors and event/festival staff to ensure that the owners, organisers and/or managers plus guests, visitors, employees and colleagues can thrive in a safe and welcome environment.

Are there any particular items or services that your customers love the most?

The working relationship, the commitment and duty of care from the team being proactive.

How do you ensure quality in what you offer to your customers?

The quality of the services delivered mirror my time in the industry since 1989 and provide all services offered with a professional approach, but a personal pledge.

How does your business connect with or support the local community?

My sister company AJ Training Academy focus on providing First Aid, and security courses for the unemployed in our communities, to help gain them an income, and quite possibly benefit their family too. 

What do you love most about being part of the business scene in Cumbria?

Cumbria is a fantastic county, a county that ‘time’ forgot because it does not get the recognition that other areas get from publicity and opportunities, but it is an amazing place full of awesome residents and businesses. Being part of keeping people and premises safe definitely ticks all my boxes.

What has been the most rewarding moment for your business so far?

Knowing that I am making a positive impact on local businesses within the County and overcoming challenges early on it it’s journey.

What challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?

The first five years the company grew on referrals from those who knew my qualities. On the fifth birthday I decided that the worst thing I done was not market the company…. Because I didn’t need to. Biggest mistake ever, so from then I have networked, done courses and met very good people to advise and encourage me to introduce AJ-Security to those that are not aware of me, but instead recognise the company, not just the person.

What’s something about your business that customers might not know?

It was 100% born on passion and designed with qualities and experiences gained from starting out as  a ‘wet behind the ears’ bouncer in 1989, and managed using these skills, plus experiences from my time serving in the British Army.

What does a typical day look like for you and your team?

On the morning I turn into work, arrive at my desk and it’s full on ensuring everything is clockwork and as expected, this continues until I eventually return home. Other than these tasks, I attend networking events, courses, conventions and ensure we continue to deliver everything expected from current clients and attend meetings with prospects at their location, my premises or somewhere convenient. Occasionally these are virtual when involving out of area meetings, but much prefer in person.

What’s your favourite part of running your business?

The rewards of knowing people are safer, and the flexible time, when possible, for additional time with my son Odin and wife Michele, oh and Tyson the dog, and our Scott when he’s home.

Do you have any advice for others looking to start a business in Cumbria?

Do your homework and research on the subject and area, prepare a watertight business plan. Welcome criticism by not just asking those you know, because in reality, ‘Nobody gives a sh*t about your business’ so it is how you evolve and take the reigns overcoming setbacks and value criticism from those who are or are not your friend, that’s what matters most, value others points. Operate your business whole heartedly, or don’t do it at all, oh and have at least one niche that nobody else is doing, or if so, do it better.

What’s one fun fact about you or your business that people might not expect?

About me

When I was a kid, I wrote to Jim’ll Fix It asking to sort it for me to go on stage with Adam and the Ants, and to do an assault course. I’m really, really pleased that he never got back to me, and I never manage to get on that stage with the band, but during my time in the Army, I done loads of assault courses… and I got that sick of them, I became a Physical Training Instructor.

About the business

It’s not fun, because it’s an unfortunate matter, but with every contract we provide for, Cash for Kids charity benefit so we can help unfortunate kids and their families, and in directly so do the clients  that invest their trust in us. In a way I suppose it may help kids have fun.