Report: Video surveillance market set to grow in small business sector

According to a recent survey conducted by Axis Communications of 500 small business owners in the UK, 82 percent of surveillance users said that they are considering replacing their existing system with more up-to-date technology. Of those that do not have a camera system in place, 39 percent reported that they are considering implementing one in the next two years.

Two of the biggest driver’s for the growth forecast, according to the study, were survey respondents concerns about theft and loss as well as their desire to leverage the latest technology to improve security. Thirty-eight percent of small businesses reported they had suffered a break-in or theft at their business premises and 78 percent said that the prospect of these crimes occurring within their business is a major concern now as well as in the future. The majority of small business owners (62 percent) are already using video surveillance to address this issue.

James Lowman, Chief Executive of the Association of Convenience Stores (ACS) said: "Axis’ survey into the challenges facing small businesses and the increasing demand for video surveillance is representative of a wider trend. Convenience stores in the UK lost over £120 million ($153.6 million) last year as a result of crimes committed against their organizations, with shop theft alone costing over £43 million ($53.9 million). Network cameras are a valuable tool for retailers, not just for reporting crimes when they happen but also to use as a preventative measure that discourages potential criminals. Our Local Shop Report shows that 78 percent of convenience stores have surveillance cameras in their business, and we also expect this to grow over the next year as more stores invest in effective crime prevention measures."

Atul Rajput, Regional Director of Northern Europe, Axis Communications states: "Installers should expect to see an increase in demand for high-quality video surveillance solutions in the small business sector as owners seek confidence that their premises are secure from theft and loss. From our research, we are seeing that features such as remote access technology are becoming increasingly sought after. Video surveillance technology is continuously evolving and small business owners are becoming notably more aware that in order to ensure a high-level of security, up-to-date and systems that deliver excellence quality are an essential purchase."

Click here to learn more or read the full market report