NextAlarm Creates Bundle with Broadband Service in Mexico

July 23, 2007
Alarm systems provider teams up with other service providers in Guadalajara

NextAlarm.com, which bills itself as the "broadband alarm company", has partnered with companies doing business in Guadalajara, Mexico to sell a package deal of cable TV, Internet access, phone service and security monitoring.

Megacable, the leading local cable TV provider in Guadalajara and the top cable firm in Mexico, is now offering the program to its subscribers, who can choose NextAlarm's technology (which works with VoIP phone systems), plus monitoring from IP Monitor, a networked-based monitoring provider. Monitoring is also available to subscribers who do not have Internet access.

Next Alarm's CEO Alex Elliot said the bundling concept was a winning solution for the alarm security firm.

"It gives Megacable subscribers more choices and affordability than if they had to purchase TV, phone, Internet and alarm monitoring individually. Second, it provides a new revenue stream for Megacable by expanding its service offerings. Finally, it allows NextAlarm and IP Monitor a new distribution channel and access to a large, emerging consumer market."

A number of other firms have moved into the bundled security monitoring and communications utility space, including BellSouth and Protection One, and even small telephone firms like Ringgold Telephone Company have begun offering a mix of communication services as well as security alarm system monitoring.

It's a move that security industry consultants like Bob Harris of Attrition Busters have advocated for as consumers start to merge their bills. The first combination that has really taken off has been Internet service and Voice over IP phone service, a trend that has not only hit businesses but also the residential market. Security may just be the next natural part of that bundle.