Sheffield-based CamWatch offers a much more sophisticated and effective security system than the traditional bell-based system, utilising remote CCTV monitoring to confirm the presence of an intruder before taking appropriate action.

This action can include giving an immediate verbal warning to the intruder, calling the key holder or alerting the local police station. Later, if necessary, the high quality digital recording can be used to secure conviction in a court of law. Police and other influential bodies such as insurance companies strongly favour these remotely monitored and 'visually confirmed' security systems.

Who is CamWatch?

CamWatch Ltd. was launched in 1998 by Phil Bunting, a skilled technician with a strong background in the security business. His systems for protecting commercial premises were far superior to the existing systems - most of which still relied on bell alarms and manned security patrols.

As technology has advanced further, and with Phil now as its Managing Director, CamWatch has established nationwide leadership in the field of commercial security. Today, the company's central monitoring station houses over 100 monitor screens, serving a wide portfolio of clients including Pizza Hut, Biffa Waste, Reg Vardy, Sheffield City Council, KLM, UK Water and Kentucky Fried Chicken.

What is the big new opportunity?

CamWatch has recognised huge new potential for providing its services to private homes as well as to the commercial sector where its technology has already been well proven. After careful consideration, it has chosen franchising as the fastest and most effective method of exploiting this lucrative new market. With the help of leading franchise consultancy FDS Midlands, the past nine months have been spent designing, constructing and testing the new domestic CamWatch franchise, which will initially target all private homes valued above £300,000. The new franchise operation will be spearheaded by Terry Maw, the company's Quality Manager.

The franchise package will require an investment of around £25,000 and will include the licence fee, franchise manual, full initial training, a computer with bespoke software, a kit of test equipment and components, marketing materials, business stationery, and the initial lease payment on a fully liveried CamWatch vehicle.

Could this franchise be for you?

To be considered as a potential CamWatch franchisee you will require a certain amount of practical aptitude and might well have already worked as a technician or installer. Equally important is sales ability, but the most important requirements of all are genuine enthusiasm and the determination to build your own highly successful business.