How to hire a discreet close protection team for a European city break

Robert Gultig

2 January 2026

How to hire a discreet close protection team for a European city break

User avatar placeholder
Written by Robert Gultig

2 January 2026

How to hire a discreet close protection team for a European city break

The luxury travel sector has seen a significant uptick in demand, particularly for bespoke services that cater to high-net-worth individuals seeking safety and privacy. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global personal security services market was valued at approximately $23 billion in 2021 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.1% from 2022 to 2030. This growth is attributed to increasing safety concerns among affluent travelers. As luxury travelers embark on European city breaks, the need for discreet close protection teams has never been more pronounced, ensuring their safety while maintaining a low profile.

Top 20 Discreet Close Protection Teams for European City Breaks

1. G4S Secure Solutions

G4S is a leading global security company with operations in over 90 countries, including a strong presence in Europe. With an estimated market share of 10% in the private security sector, G4S offers tailored close protection services designed for VIP clients, ensuring safety while keeping a low profile.

2. Control Risks

Control Risks specializes in risk management and offers close protection services across Europe. The company has over 1,000 security professionals globally and reported revenues of $400 million in 2022, reflecting its robust position in the security consulting industry.

3. Pinkerton

Founded in 1850, Pinkerton is one of the oldest security firms globally, providing close protection services to high-net-worth individuals. The company operates in over 100 countries and has a reputation for its discreet approach, handling high-risk situations with a market presence that continues to grow.

4. International Protective Services

With a focus on high-profile clients in Europe, International Protective Services offers tailored close protection teams. The company has reported an annual growth rate of 5% in its European operations, emphasizing its commitment to client confidentiality and safety.

5. Aegis Defence Services

Aegis is known for its elite security teams, particularly in high-risk environments. With operations extending across Europe, Aegis provides close protection services that cater specifically to affluent travelers, boasting a reputation that positions it as a leader in the sector.

6. Security Risk Management (SRM)

Operating primarily in Europe, SRM has carved a niche in close protection for VIPs. The firm has seen a surge in demand, resulting in a 20% increase in its service contracts in the last year, driven by heightened safety concerns among luxury travelers.

7. Blackwater (Academi)

With a storied history, Blackwater, now known as Academi, provides close protection services across Europe. The company is noted for its rigorous training programs, and its commitment to client safety has earned it a loyal clientele among affluent travelers.

8. Stratfor Global Intelligence

Stratfor offers a unique approach to close protection by integrating intelligence analysis with security services. This method has helped increase its client base among high-net-worth individuals, with reported growth in their protective services division by 15% in the last year.

9. The British Security Industry Association (BSIA)

BSIA is a trade association that represents the security industry in the UK. By providing a list of accredited close protection companies, BSIA ensures that clients can find discreet and reliable security options, thereby enhancing the market for personal security services.

10. Securitas AB

Securitas is a leading global security services provider with a strong presence in Europe. The company reported revenues of approximately $12 billion in 2021, with a robust growth strategy focusing on personalized security solutions, including close protection services for luxury clients.

11. Prosegur

Prosegur, headquartered in Spain, is a major player in the European security market. The company’s close protection services are tailored for high-profile individuals and have seen a 10% increase in service uptake due to rising safety concerns.

12. Allied Universal

Allied Universal is a global security firm that provides tailored close protection services. The company reported a revenue of $8 billion in 2021, reflecting its strong market position and commitment to delivering high-quality security solutions.

13. Threat Management Group

Operating in multiple European cities, Threat Management Group offers bespoke close protection services tailored to luxury travelers. The company has built a reputation for excellence, reporting a client satisfaction rate of over 90%.

14. Citadel Security Agency

Citadel specializes in providing close protection for high-net-worth individuals and has recently expanded its operations across Europe. The agency reports a 25% increase in clientele over the past year, indicating a growing demand for discreet security services.

15. AIG Travel Guard

AIG Travel Guard provides travel insurance along with close protection services in Europe. With a market share of 12% in the travel insurance space, the company’s integrated security solutions make it a popular choice for affluent travelers seeking comprehensive safety measures.

16. AS Solution

AS Solution focuses on providing close protection services for celebrities and high-net-worth individuals. The agency has gained traction in the European market, with a reported client growth of 30% in the last two years.

17. Protec Security

Protec Security offers a range of close protection services across Europe, with a focus on discretion and professionalism. The company has experienced steady growth, reflecting the increasing demand for personalized security solutions among luxury travelers.

18. CISO Group

CISO Group provides close protection and risk management services tailored to high-profile clients. With a strong background in corporate security, the company has shifted focus to luxury travel, securing a 15% increase in its market presence in Europe.

19. AON Risk Solutions

AON offers comprehensive risk management services, including close protection for high-net-worth individuals. With a global revenue of approximately $11 billion, AON’s security services are increasingly sought after by affluent travelers seeking peace of mind.

20. Vigilant Global Security

Vigilant Global Security specializes in providing close protection services tailored for VIP clients in major European cities. The company has reported a 20% increase in new contracts, indicating a robust demand for high-quality, discreet security services.

Insights

As European cities continue to attract affluent travelers, the demand for discreet close protection teams is on the rise. The global personal security services market is expected to reach $39 billion by 2030, driven by increasing concerns over safety while traveling. Moreover, the rise of luxury travel amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties has heightened the focus on personalized security solutions. This trend suggests a growing need for specialized services that not only ensure safety but also align with the privacy expectations of high-net-worth individuals. As the market evolves, companies that can provide tailored and discreet protection will likely gain a competitive edge.

Related Analysis: View Previous Industry Report

Author: Robert Gultig in conjunction with ESS Research Team

Robert Gultig is a veteran Managing Director and International Trade Consultant with over 20 years of experience in global trading and market research. Robert leverages his deep industry knowledge and strategic marketing background (BBA) to provide authoritative market insights in conjunction with the ESS Research Team. If you would like to contribute articles or insights, please join our team by emailing support@essfeed.com.
View Robert’s LinkedIn Profile →