From cybersecurity and ESG compliance to supply chain resilience, modern businesses face a complex array of challenges that influence their choice of manufacturing partner. Today’s organisations must navigate issues like cyber threats, supply chain stability, and the growing need for sustainability, making the right partnership an essential strategic decision. John Lutz Boorman of Hanwha Vision Europe underscores how the right manufacturing partner can alleviate some of these burdens.
John Lutz Boorman
Building cyber resilience
Cybersecurity is a pressing concern for UK businesses, with a significant portion of companies and charities reporting cybersecurity breaches over the past year, costing an average of £3.7 million per incident. Both the UK and EU have rolled out initiatives to address cyber risks, with the EU’s Cyber Resilience Act (CRA) and NIS2 Directive setting standards for network security. Although the UK is no longer bound by EU legislation, it has proposed similar measures in the upcoming Cyber Security and Resilience Bill, and companies that operate across Europe must still adhere to NIS2 standards.
Hanwha Vision’s commitment to cybersecurity, evidenced by a dedicated S-CERT team and ISO 27001 certification, makes it a solid partner for organisations looking to meet these requirements. UL CAP-certified Wisenet 7 Advanced SoC security features ensure stringent standards, while Hanwha Vision’s CVE Numbering Authority status supports transparency around potential vulnerabilities.
ESG in full focus
Regarding ESG, consumer expectations have heightened the importance of sustainable practices, with 60% of customers now factoring a company’s ethical stance into purchasing decisions—a figure that is increasing annually. Manufacturers that prioritise sustainability in operations, such as Hanwha Vision, offer organisations a way to bolster their own ESG commitments.
As a UN Global Compact (UNGC) signatory, Hanwha Vision adheres to sustainable practices at the smart factory in Vietnam, where solar power generation reduces energy use and emissions. ISO 37301 certification underscores the company’s dedication to ethical operations, and focus on resource-efficient materials and renewable energy further cements Hanwha Vision’s position as an ESG-conscious partner.
Supply chain resilience is another critical factor, with 21% of UK businesses expressing concern over potential disruptions. Manufacturers like Hanwha Vision, which maintains control over the design and production process, provide stability and quality assurance that those that simply badge other manufacturers’ products often cannot match. The company’s green purchasing strategy promotes materials with low environmental impact, while its emphasis on energy and water optimisation contributes to reduced operational costs and pollution. This resilience is increasingly important as businesses face security risks associated with using surveillance technology from high-risk regions.
Compliance with the US National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) provides an added layer of trustworthiness, and nearly 40% of UK security managers believe the UK will eventually introduce similar legislation. Selecting a partner with NDAA compliance offers reassurance in high-security sectors, particularly in sensitive areas like healthcare, education, and law enforcement.
The myriad challenges that businesses face today may often seem insurmountable to managers, and those highlighted here represent only a small selection of what leaders must consider every day to remain competitive. However, working with a trusted partner that understands these challenges and actively helps organisations overcome them can help take some of the pressure off meeting targets.