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GLOBAL SECURITY : SECURITY FOR LIFE...

Cover story
image
Author :
Sandrine Étonde


 

Global Security was founded by Jocelyn Bordeleau and Sonia Dupuis in Quebec City, PQ, in 2001. They knew nothing about home security and had never worked in this industry. Nonetheless, as soon as ADT – the North American leader in that sector – approached them to become one of its official distributors they didn’t hesitate. Soon they were dedicating themselves, mind and soul, to their new business.



"When I was offered the chance to become an authorized dealer for the biggest and most prestigious security company, I instantly recognized the tremendous opportunity. More than a business, I made it a mission and a personal commitment to protect as many families as possible in Canada.” Sonia Dupuis, co-founder and VP Finance.



Today, relying on its success and expertise, Global Security chose franchising as a development model and at the end of 2008, created the first franchise network in the home security industry in North America.





PORTRAIT OF THE FIRM







AN ESTABLISHED LEADER IN THE INDUSTRY



Global Security sells and installs residential and commercial security systems that are on the leading edge of technology, they also guarantee high quality customer and after sales service.



In the past few years, Global Security has become the national #1 in volume amongst the 75 companies distributing ADT’s security services. Overall in North America the company ranks in the Top 10.



Today, Global Security has 12 corporate offices and more than a hundred employees throughout Canada. The company has come a long way from their humble beginnings, where the founders walked through neighbourhoods, introducing themselves and promoting their security systems.





STANDARDS SUPERIOR TO THE NORM



Despite the lack of a clear and severe legislation in its sector, Global Security has set and maintains high and rigorous standards in terms of quality, professionalism, supervision and training.



It is no surprise then that Global is now the reference recommended to consumers by CAA-Quebec Habitation (the residential services branch of the provincial CAA) and has been approved as a member of the Canadian Security Association (CANASA).





EXCEPTIONAL PARTNERSHIPS



Partnering with ADT is a huge benefit for Global Security. ADT is a giant in the security industry, with more than 130 years of experience and almost eight million subscribers around the world. This insures Global (and its consumers) the best security solutions.



For electronic security products Global works with Honeywell, another well-known world leader in the field. All products (boards, detectors, control panels, emergency buttons etc) are user-friendly, meet and exceed governmental requirements and are constantly upgraded.

Because of their exceptional partnerships, this Quebec-based company can offer its customers top notch security systems at competitive prices. Moreover, their equipment is linked to ADT surveillance centrals that provide a 24-hour a day, 7-day a week, 365-day a year protection.



Also worth noting, that unlike most of its competitors, ADT is recognized and used by official institutions and big business for their own security. This means that individuals protected by Global Security receive the same protection as banks and multinationals!





PERSONALIZED AND DIVERSIFIED SERVICES



"People tend to believe that security systems serve only to catch thieves. It is far from the truth but the public doesn’t know it. Therefore, we make it our business to go to them and offer them our wide range of services, adapting them to their needs.”



This is how Jacques Lord, Global Security’s Vice-President of Business Development, describes the company’s goal and approach in a few words.



Protection channels offered to customers



1• Theft and intrusion

2• 24-hour police emergency

3• 4-hour fire emergency

4• 24-hour medical emergency

5• Bi-directional voice (for emergencies where customers need to speak directly to an operator, instead of only giving an alarm)



“Our systems detect smoke, water levels, fire, low temperatures... They are very useful and easy to use. And the system costs less than a dollar a day.”





WHY A GLOBAL SECURITY FRANCHISE







A COMMITED AND EXPERIENCED TEAM



One of Global Security’s biggest assets lies in its team; these are the people who work for the company from top to bottom. Jocelyn Bordeleau and Sonia Dupuis have surrounded themselves with a board of directors, with three associates who possess solid expertise.



Jacques Lord - VP of Business Development - spent 11 years as ADT’s corporate director before joining Global in 2008. He is running the franchise program launched in late 2008, after a two-year preparation.



Robert Ouellet - VP of Technical Operations - has been involved in the home security sector for more than 15 years. An entrepreneur, he ran his own company prior to joining Global. Previous to this, he was director of service and installation for a company that expanded across Canada.



Robert Théorêt - VP of Corporate Development - owned a security systems company for almost a decade, prior to this he held a top management position with a telecom giant.



All three understand the challenges and changes that occur in their field, and they are wise in the ways that will lead the company to success. Global’s expertise is not limited to the Board of Directors, every member of the staff is carefully recruited, trained and equipped. All employees are dedicated and contribute to the company’s growth as well as to the success of its franchisees.





A UNIVERSAL NEED AND A FULFILLING MISSION



"Being the mother of four beautiful children, I am very sensitive to home security issues, to risks related to fire or intrusion for instance.”



Global Security co-founder’s words find an echo in the hearts of millions around the world. In fact, the need to feel safe is universal. It is one of the deepest needs we have. Psychologist Abraham Maslow even ranked it in second position in his famous pyramid, right after physiological needs like eating, drinking and sleeping.



This is a need that never disappears, no matter when, where or the economic circumstance. It means security companies will never run out of business. What a wonderful guarantee for people interested in a profitable business opportunity with recurring incomes!



There is also a profound personal satisfaction for being involved in a truly useful activity, where you can even contribute to saving lives. This gives a priceless added value to Global Security franchises.



"When one of the thousands of security systems we’ve already installed spares a life, prevents a tragedy, well, it is mission accomplished for me,” says Sonia Dupuis. "The desire to do more, to have greater impact is one of the main reasons behind our expansion plans. We want our network to protect families everywhere in Quebec, and from coast to coast in Canada, and even in the United States.”





A POTENTIALLY UNLIMITED MARKET



Security companies face a key paradox: although everybody needs to feel secure, only a few people actually shop for a security system. They seek protection and subscribe to insurances for their health, family, travels, homes etc. It is only after they or people close to them are victims of an accident or a theft that they take action.



In Canada, the contrast between need and reality may be sharper than in several other countries. On the one hand, national statistics tell us there is a robbery every three minutes in residential neighbourhoods, and reveal that 58% of all crimes are related to the theft of goods. On the other hand, numbers show that 80% of all Canadian homes don’t have a security system!



"It means that only 20% of the market is covered right now!” says Jacques Lord with enthusiasm. "Expansion possibilities are almost limitless!”

According to him, Global Security installs on average 500 systems per month (at the corporate level only) and aims at doubling its volume in 2009. At the other end of the spectrum, the monthly average for competitors ranges between 10 and 15 systems. Why this wide gap?





THE GLOBALTM CONCEPT







Jocelyn Bordeleau, Global’s CEO, clearly explains the difference between this company and others in the official letter sent out to prospects showing interest in a franchise:



"The vast majority of companies in our sector cut their price and margin of profit in order to increase their market share. They fight hard to take a hold of more of the 20% of consumers who already have a security system linked to a surveillance central. Thanks to our GlobalTM concept, we were able to open 12 corporate offices across Canada and we install more systems than our competitors without having to cut our prices.”





A WINNING APPROACH



Global distinguishes itself and can guarantee a return on investment superior to the rest of the industry. This is because of its original and diversified marketing techniques. Unlike others, the company is always proactive. Members of the sales departments are trained to engage potential clients, to create or rise to their needs and to give visibility to products at all times.



• Global Security sets up promotional events in neighbourhoods across the country.

• Everything is not centralized in Montreal. Employees of each of its 12 corporate offices (10 in Quebec, two in Ontario) are chosen locally in order to create and maintain better relationships with the public.

• Several websites, landing pages and other tools have made the company an indisputable resource on the Internet for anyone making a search for security systems. People who click on a link about Global receive a follow-up call almost immediately.

• The company has also developed its own client referencing plan and has created its own teams in charge of marketing and customer service. These agents are top recruits and are specifically trained to meet the needs of their industry.

• Global always attends local and regional events relating directly or indirectly to their sector, including housing shows, and they have negotiated affinity programs with insurance companies and real estate agents.

• Global's partnerships and their regional offices' success are priceless assets for future franchisees and substantiate the strength of the network's foundations.





THE KEY: THE FRANCHISOR/FRANCHISEE RELATIONSHIP



"In the past, people could be lone rangers in the industry, but that time is over,” says Jacques Lord. “Today, the market is too competitive, clients too savvy, standards too high and technology changes too fast... To succeed, you need to belong to a network. To be part of a strong and well-established team that is on the cutting-edge. A team like Global's.“



Global Security's first franchisees share these views and have absolutely no regrets for choosing this franchise system.



"As soon as we started operating our business, we felt ready to achieve the highest goals... Training and support we received from Global exceeded our expectations. I could plan ahead all the steps leading to starting my business and that helped me immensely to focus on my operations.” Caroline Émond, Global Saint-Constant.



"We are amazed by the incredible opportunity the home security market offers. Especially if you benefit from Global's support and expertise. It's also very useful to be able to communicate with people from all the offices in Quebec and Ontario. This healthy and solid network assured our success.” Maryse Fredette and Jean-François Laroche, Global Drummondville.





WHAT GLOBAL SECURITY OFFERS YOU





FRANCHISES AVAILABLE EVERYWHERE IN THE COUNTRY



To date, Global Security represents the one and only home security franchise network in North America. Two types of franchises are available: franchises to only sell security systems or franchises to sell and install systems. Of the 76 exclusive territories the company showcases nationwide, two are already sold and in operation. Five others are presently in evaluation and should be active in the next few months.



Jacques Lord, the head of the franchise program, is eager to be contacted by and to meet with potential franchisees. At the same time he expresses Global’s cautious and serious state of mind:



"Our objective isn't to rush into selling as many franchises as possible carelessly. We want to take the time to establish and develop each one and make it a success. We will leave nothing to chance or improvisation.”





A COMPLETE AND DETAILED TRAINING



"Success for a franchisee starts with training, says M. Lord. “For us, it is the sinews of war, and Global Security has spent the last eight years refining its concepts and methods.”



Thanks to its expertise which constitutes its greatest strength Global offers training like no other. After the selection process, the chosen applicants are taught and shown everything they need.



For two weeks, the new owners-franchisees and their staff are trained at Global's head office and learn all the necessary administrative, technical, commercial and managerial practices.



When operating their franchise, they receive regular support and are constantly informed and updated about changes or practices pertinent to the whole network.





A MULTIDIMENSIONAL AND USEFUL SUPPORT



Global Security doesn't limit to training the support it provides. In fact its help covers the many facets, needs and challenges encountered in the home security industry, such as:



• Identifying a site (exclusive territory) and negotiating the lease

• Obtaining federal and provincial permits

• Recruiting and training employees

• Making a business plan and arranging for financing

• Buying the equipment and furniture for the office

• Training the owner-franchisee and his top management





MULTIPLE SERVICES AFTER OPENING



• During the first two weeks of activity, a member of Global's team is right there in the field with the franchisee, helping with the day to day responsibilities

• A detailed operations handbook and all the forms and work procedures

• Right to use Global Security's established trademark

• Monthly analysis service including action plans focused on growth

• Support for administrative and financial tasks

• Products financing program

• Assistance to develop multiple franchises

• National deals with suppliers

• Potential clients listings

• Participation to several national sales sweepstakes

• Permanent helpdesk for franchisees

• Resource person/consultant assigned to franchisees for their operations

• Continual training given by Global's team of experts

• Participation to the national advertising program

• Support for human resources management





BECOMING FRANCHISEE



"If you have a positive unwavering attitude and if you are willing to invest in the hard work required to succeed, we commit ourselves to developing your competence and help you reach the top.” Jocelyn Bordeleau, Global Security's CEO





FINANCIAL INFORMATION



How much does it cost to own a Global Security franchise?



Your total investment will depend on the type of franchise you choose. For a franchise focusing only on selling security systems the cost is $75,000. A franchise to sell and install systems costs $100,000. This guarantees you a turnkey franchise and includes your working capital.

Moreover, you can receive up to 75% of your financing through the small business financing program and the financial institutions with which Global has established agreements.



What about other fees, like the initial investment and the initial fees?



The initial investment amounts to $25,000. As for the initial fees, depending on the type of franchise chosen it varies between $10,000 and $15,000.



And the royalties?



The royalty fee is 3%. Therefore it is really in the franchisor's interest to see its franchisees have success and become more and more profitable. You also have to take into account a 1% contribution to the common advertising fund which greatly benefits each franchise.





ABOUT SUCCESS



What are the keys to make it?



The most important ingredients to make a really profitable franchise are:



• 100% commitment of the franchisee

• Strict observance of the GlobalTM concept

• Running the business with excellence

• Impeccable customer service

• Good personnel selection and management



In concrete terms, what are the chances of success?



No success can be guaranteed. Based on our experience, both company and branches, and on the dynamic market we’re in, it is certain that franchisees can get their return on investment during their first year of activity.

Also, if you follow with dedication GlobalTM marketing methods your net profit can reach a million dollars within five years! This is with an average investment of $75,000 to start your business.





SELECTION CRITERIA



"We are not looking for simple investors, but for hard-working managers, who are responsible and competent. It may be a couple wanting to share a common project and the workload. Having experience in the home security sector is not a prerequisite.”



The aim for Global Security isn't to just extend its network. They're looking for and want to achieve “perfect matches”. Here are the key elements serving as a basis to evaluate the applications.



1- Do you really want to have your own business?

Owning a Global franchise, you work for yourself while benefiting from a constant support from the network's experts.



2- Are you willing to put up the necessary hard work?

You must be ready to work 12 hours a day during the first 6 months of operating your business and to be involved personally with your employees.



3- Do you possess the ability to quickly develop your competence?

To succeed as a franchisee, you will have to learn the GlobalTM concept very fast and to follow precisely Global's model of success.



4- Do you have the required financing?

A Global franchise requires $25,000 in liquid assets and between $75,000 and $100,000 in total investment.



5- Are you motivated by the unlimited revenues possibilities?

Global wants to partner with serious business people whose ambition is really to gain 7 figures profits.



How long does the whole selection process last?



The process spans across a relatively short period of time, it takes about three (3) weeks. It represents the lapse between the first meeting with the prospect and the moment that person learns if his or her application has been approved.
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