Security stalwart Alan Townley strikes out on his own

A North West security business has made a flying start after winning a host of contracts across numerous sectors including construction, sport and hospitality in its first few months of operation.
Alan Townley set up Aztek Security Services last summer after a decade working in the security industry, including at Manchester United.
Well known around the business community from his time at United, and with different media businesses, he has struck out on his own to provide a range of security services, including manned guards, canine units, mobile patrols, event security, staffing gatehouses, front-of-house security and concierge provision.
Aztek also designs, supplies, installs, maintains and monitors CCTV systems.
He said: “I spent a considerable number of years learning my trade and decided it was time to branch out on my own. We have come a long way in our first six months or so, surpassing our initial expectations.”
Townley said Aztek is on track to achieve turnover of £250,000 in its first year of operation and has ambitious growth plans.
It undertakes short-term assignments and permanent placings throughout the North West and beyond, including ones at residential and commercial construction sites, hospitality venues, industrial and warehousing complexes, sports fixtures, corporate and private events and parties, apartment blocks and entire neighbourhoods.
Clients include Barratt Homes, Salford’s Lowry Hotel, Curzon Ashton Football Club, ConnectIn Events, In1 Global Fulfilment and property management company Real Estate Investment Partnerships.
“We’ve built a strong foundation from which to expand further, with a team of highly- trained accredited security professionals delivering tailored packages to an increasingly varied client base,” he said.
“Our staff are more than just a presence – they are the first line of protection for our clients, ensuring safety, professionalism and a welcoming first impression for visitors.
“We treat all assets as if they are our own, and take great personal pride in every assignment, with a proactive approach and a commitment to excellence and customer focus.
“The time has flown by, and I’ve been fortunate to receive tremendous support from those around me as well as from our highly-trained security teams.
“We’ve built strong relationships with our clients by placing their security in expert hands, but we are not resting on our laurels and have plans to expand our range of services to include site cleaning, access control and biometric turnstiles, as well as the installation of steel doors, fire doors, bollards and barriers.”
He is also a vice-president of Forever Manchester and being a sponsor of the Christmas Ball held by Jolly Josh, a purpose-built centre in Rochdale for children with complex medical needs and physical disabilities.