According to a report from IHS, the global market for physical security equipment and services was worth $110 billion 2012 and is expected to grow to $170 billion by 2017. As stated in the report the Americas made up 41 per cent of the worldwide market in 2012, generating $46 billion in revenue, followed by Asia with $33 billion and the EMEA region with $29 billion.  Each of these markets is expected to see strong growth over the next few years.

Mike Shibata, chairman of Optex EMEA, commented: "The United Kingdom is an ideal location for us to expand our international reach outside Japan. Currently, 35 per cent of our global sale is from Europe, which is just as important as our native Japanese market. In addition, Optex’s biggest core business is in security, and the UK has the biggest security market throughout EMEA, so we see lots of opportunities for further growth.”

s focuses include creating extra value by integrating surveillance cameras with sensing devices for quicker and more reliable detection of possible threats; improving the security level of infrastructure-related facilities such as protection of public facilities against terrorist attacks; in; s technology in automatic door operation safety to comply with European standards for automatic door activation. 

Shibata added: "I believe that there are an infinite number of opportunities in between sensing technology and human life other than the above. Optex EMEA headquarters has established a mission to develop those new possibilities from the close contact with our customers and regional market place. Our goal is to contribute to a safe and comfortable society. With this in mind, we expect to see future success of Optex in EMEA.”

The Japanese innovator announced its major investment in the 100 per cent share capital of UK lighting manufacturer Raytec in 2012. This partnership allowed the two companies to capitalise on many common synergies in sales and technology bringing both sensor and lighting technologies together. The Raytec brand remains in place and its focus remains firmly on innovation and illumination.