Johnnie Walker Princes Street Fire & Security Case Study
Protecting Edinburgh's Premier Whisky Experience with Integrated Fire & Security Solutions
Client Overview
Johnnie Walker Princes Street (JWPS) is Edinburgh's newest landmark attraction, taking visitors on an immersive journey through the 200-year history of the world's best-selling whisky. Located in the heart of Scotland's capital on prestigious Princes Street, this eight-floor transformed landmark building features food and drink experiences, the 1820 rooftop bar with stunning city views, and The Label Studio hosting live events and performances throughout the year.
JWPS is owned by Diageo, a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of over 200 brands across beer and spirits.
The Challenge
As one of Edinburgh's top attractions housed in a listed building, JWPS presented unique security and safety challenges:
Heritage building constraints - Listed building status required careful consideration of structural restrictions
High visitor volumes - Need to protect large numbers of visitors across eight floors
Multiple operational areas - Different security requirements for retail, dining, events, and rooftop bar
Integration requirements - Need for unified system management across fire and security platforms
Cyber security concerns - Protection against modern digital threats
The Evolution Solution
Evolution delivered a comprehensive, bespoke fire and security solution comprising:
Fire Detection & Life Safety
Complete fire detection and alarm system installation
Disabled refuge systems for emergency evacuation compliance
Full network integration with security systems
Security Systems
Access Control - Comprehensive entry management across all floors
CCTV Surveillance - Strategic camera placement for optimal coverage
Intrusion Detection - Perimeter and internal protection systems
InterComms System - Intelligent International Communications system enabling live communications with unlimited doors/master stations, fully integrated with IP-based systems
Integrated Management Platform
Innovative front-end graphics system for unified monitoring
Single platform management for all system components
Cyber-threat protection with robust security protocols
Archiving and failover technologies ensuring business continuity
Resilient solution designed for various outage scenarios
Implementation Process
Evolution managed the entire project lifecycle:
Design Phase - Bespoke system design addressing listed building constraints
Tender Process - Appointed by FES Group following competitive tender
Installation - Professional installation with minimal disruption to operations
Integration - Full networking and integration of all systems
Commissioning - Complete testing and handover to client teams
Training - On-site security staff training on the unified platform
Results & Benefits
Enhanced Safety - Comprehensive fire detection and evacuation systems protect thousands of daily visitors
Unified Management - Single platform operation reduces complexity and training requirements
Future-Proof Technology - Cyber-secure, scalable solution with business continuity features
Heritage Compliance - Solution respects listed building requirements while delivering modern security
Operational Efficiency - Integrated systems enable streamlined security management
Client Testimonial
"JWPS is a prime example of Evolution's capabilities to deliver integrated systems, no matter the size or complexities involved. JWPS is one of Edinburgh's most popular attractions, located in a prestigious location and its status as a listed building meant we had to be mindful of a number of potential risks and structural restrictions. From the initial drawings and design phase, through to the commissioning of the new systems, we are proud to have been involved in this project, delivering a complete fire and security system tailored to meet the specific needs of the client."
John Baillie, Sales Director – EMEA, Evolution
Project Partners
Main Contractor: FES Group - Leading UK technical and building services company
Security Integration: Evolution Security - Leading integrated fire and security systems specialist
End Client: Diageo - Global beverage alcohol leader
Why Choose Evolution?
This project demonstrates Evolution's expertise in:
Complex Heritage Projects - Navigating listed building constraints
Large-Scale Integration - Unifying multiple security disciplines
Visitor-Focused Solutions - Balancing security with user experience
Future-Proof Technology - Cyber-secure, scalable platforms
End-to-End Service - From design through commissioning and beyond
Ready to secure your premises with integrated fire and security solutions? Contact Evolution Security today to discuss your requirements.