What’s Next for the UK Managed Services Market?

Key Takeaways

• Managed services in cyber security are rapidly evolving across the UK market

• Demand for MDR and advanced threat detection is increasing

• Hybrid cloud and AI readiness are driving infrastructure changes

• Talent shortages are accelerating outsourcing to expert providers

• Celerity is helping organisations adapt with secure, scalable solutions

In an interview featured in the Tech Industry Forum report, Celerity CEO Craig Aston shares his perspective on the key trends shaping the UK market for managed services in cyber security.  

He explores the growing demand for cybersecurity and MDR, the shift toward hybrid cloud and data repatriation to support AI readiness, and the challenges around rising costs and ongoing talent shortages. Craig also highlights new opportunities in the public sector, particularly within the NHS, and explains what MSPs are looking for from vendor partners. 

Key Trends Shaping the Market

Rising Demand for Cyber Security and MDR

As threats continue to evolve, organisations are investing more heavily in managed services in cyber security to strengthen their defences.  

While Managed Detection and Response (MDR) remains a critical component, organisations are increasingly looking for integrated security capabilities that go beyond detection alone. This includes continuous threat monitoring through SIEM, proactive exposure management, and access to expert-led Security Operations Centres (SOC).  

Together, these capabilities enable businesses to detect, respond to, and prevent threats more effectively while continuously improving their overall security posture.  

Celerity delivers this full-service approach, combining MDR with broader cyber security capabilities to provide comprehensive protection. 

The Shift Toward Hybrid Cloud and AI Readiness 

Businesses are increasingly adopting hybrid cloud environments to support innovation and scalability. 

At the same time, data repatriation is gaining traction as organisations prepare for AI adoption. These shifts are closely linked to managed services in cyber security, ensuring data is secure, accessible, and optimised for emerging technologies. 

This requires more than infrastructure alone. Organisations need end-to-end security coverage, including monitoring, threat detection, risk visibility, and strategic consultancy to ensure secure transformation. 

Celerity supports this transition through a combination of secure infrastructure, continuous monitoring, and expert cyber security guidance. 

Cost Pressures and Talent Shortages 

Rising operational costs and a shortage of skilled professionals continue to challenge the industry. 

This is driving demand for managed services in cyber security, where organisations can access not only MDR, but also a full team of security experts, including SOC analysts, consultants, and threat specialists, without the overhead of building in-house teams. 

By combining technology, automation, and human expertise, organisations can maintain high levels of protection while controlling costs. 

Celerity addresses this gap by providing scalable access to skilled professionals and integrated security services. 

Opportunities in the Public Sector 

The public sector, particularly the NHS, is creating new opportunities for providers of managed services in cyber security. 

As digital transformation accelerates, there is an increasing need for secure, compliant, and resilient systems, supported by continuous monitoring, incident response, and governance aligned to regulatory frameworks. 

Organisations require a partner that can deliver both operational security and strategic guidance to meet strict compliance and risk management requirements. 

Celerity is well-positioned to support these initiatives through its full-service cyber security capabilities. 

What MSPs Expect from Vendor Partners 

Service providers are becoming more selective about their vendor partnerships. 

They are looking for: 

• Strong, end-to-end cyber security capabilities  

• Integrated solutions across monitoring, detection, response, and risk management  

• Access to skilled experts and strategic consultancy  

• Reliable support and collaboration 

These expectations are shaping how managed services in cyber security is delivered across the ecosystem, with a clear shift toward holistic, outcome-driven security services rather than standalone tools. 

Celerity aligns closely with these evolving needs by delivering a fully integrated cyber security offering. 

Industry-Wide Insights from the Tech Industry Forum 

The full Tech Industry Forum report brings together insights from across the MSP ecosystem, with contributions from service providers, technology vendors and industry experts. It offers a comprehensive view of how the market is evolving and where the biggest opportunities lie. 

Read the full Tech Industry Forum report 

Discover What’s Next 

Understanding the future of managed services in cyber security is essential for staying competitive and secure in a rapidly evolving market. 

Celerity provides the expertise, insight, and technology needed to help your organisation adapt and thrive. 

Speak to the Celerity team to explore how Celerity can support your cyber security strategy and long-term growth. 

Source: Disruptive Live | Lenovo

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is meant by managed services in cyber security?

Managed services in cyber security refers to outsourced security solutions that provide continuous monitoring, threat detection, and response to protect organisations from cyber risks. 

Why is managed services in cyber security growing in the UK? 

The rise in cyber threats, combined with talent shortages and increasing compliance requirements, is driving demand for managed services in cyber security across UK organisations. 

What is MDR in managed services in cyber security?

Managed Detection and Response is a key component of managed services in cyber security, enabling rapid identification and response to cyber threats. 

How does hybrid cloud impact managed services in cyber security?

Hybrid cloud environments require robust managed services in cyber security to ensure data is protected across both on-premise and cloud systems. 

How can Celerity support managed services in cyber security? 

Celerity delivers expert-led managed services in cyber security, helping organisations strengthen resilience, adopt new technologies, and stay ahead of evolving threats.