Sales of new products
The Group has incurred substantial strategic expenditure on new developments within the electronic division, based on market intelligence but a risk exists due to the dynamic nature of the market itself. The Group mitigates this risk by carrying out customer trials and ascertaining features required by customers.
Service agreements
The majority of service revenues within the asset protection division are from 1 to 3 year service agreements and there is the risk that these may not be renewed. The Company has service level agreements with these customers which are closely monitored and holds regular meetings with those customers to check on their satisfaction levels. If the service agreements are not renewed it is likely that those customers would still require our services but would be charged on a call out basis.
Market conditions
The asset protection division product range is targeted at both the private (particularly financial, retail and construction sectors) and the public sector. Customer refurbishment programmes within the financial sector continues to act as an underlying positive trend for demand for many of the division’s products. Our business is reliant on the timing of customer programmes and there is a risk that these may be delayed. The division mitigates this risk by offering a wide range of product offerings, continuous new product development and maintaining a close working relationship with its customers so that we are aware of any potential delays.
Input prices and availability
Operating performance is impacted by the pricing and availability of its key inputs, which include electronic components, steel and security glass. The pricing of such inputs can be quite volatile at times due to supply and demand dynamics and the input costs of the supply base. The Group manages the effect of such demands through a rigid procurement process, long-term relationships with suppliers, economic purchasing, multiple suppliers and inventory management. Prices of imported products and components from the EU have continued to be affected after the Brexit vote as a result of the fall in value of the pound and this uncertainty continues. The Board have been reviewing the potential impact of Brexit including looking at alternative sources of supply, as well as increasing stock levels in the short term until the outcome of the current negotiations become clearer. With this continuing uncertainty concerning the possible impact of the value of sterling and import tariffs following the conclusion of these negotiations, the Board continues to monitor the situation and the risks involved.
Quality control
There is the potential for functional failure of products when put to use, thereby leading to warranty costs and damage to our reputation. Quality control procedures are therefore an essential part of the process before the product is delivered to the customer. With the support of external auditors the quality control systems are reviewed and improved on an on-going basis to ensure that the Group is compliant with the certification processes which are undertaken by a recognised and reputable authority.