PSI MAGAZINE COLUMN: DECEMBER 2014

This month, Simon talks to Nigel Ingoldsby, Director of Glo-Bell Fire & Security Ltd who deliver business and home security services throughout Essex and London, keeping families and businesses secure.

Why did you decide to start your own business?

It was a prospect that I’d been contemplating for a long time and when the opportunity arose, I knew that I had to jump on it. I needed a business partner I could trust with similar industry experience and knowledge to myself. My business partner installed one of the first ever DualCom units back in 1996 and he has kept his finger on the pulse of industry innovation since then.

After years of ARC experience, what prompted the move to buy-into an installation company?

The last 20 years of working with installers has provided a valuable insight into what it takes to run a successful small business and what to avoid, ensuring that it doesn’t fail. We’ve applied these principles to our first acquisition, Glo-Bell and have also successfully done the same with the two companies we have purchased since then – including BBB Electrical.

What are your expectations of an ARC now that you are on ‘the other side’?

I think it is essential to have a good working relationship with your ARC account manager. They are the first point of reference and should have your business priorities as a key focus. We expect an ARC to deliver the same quality service that we deliver to our customers. Cutting edge products and consistently fast and efficient response times are crucial. In order for our customers to have a positive experience of their monitoring service, it is vital that the operators they speak to have a good knowledge of their service.

What does the future hold?

We’re looking to acquire a fourth company in the New Year, which will see an enhanced integration of services and give us an even better reach across London and the Southeast. Over the next year I think it’s important that we take some time to focus on stability of service after such a rapid period of growth. Next year we plan to expand our work force by taking on some apprentices as part of the 100 in 100 campaign, a really worthwhile initiative that makes great business sense. There aren’t nearly enough highly skilled engineers out there, so by taking the time to train young enthusiastic individuals, your business can only grow and improve with them.

You Said It! 

"Tomorrow is @CSLDualCom DigiAir Wednesday for me! 4 to install throughout Devon and Cornwall. Another easy day, don't tell the gaffa ;-)"

Tweeted by @independentFS - Nov 11