By Jeanny Lim

Can you please update our readers of some of the recent developments of Bosch Security Systems? 

Following on from the integration of several acquisitions, including the Philips video surveillance system division, Bosch has concluded the purchase of Telex Communications Holdings, Inc.  This move has allowed Bosch to considerably broaden its product range of communications systems and to strengthen its position as a complete provider of security and communications systems.  Internal growth has led to further innovations in products, systems and services.  High-performance video cameras and video over IP products have contributed significantly to our growth.  With the Easy Series intrusion control panel, Bosch is tapping into the security market segment for private properties and small commercial businesses.  The division is also driving the expansion of sales channels forward.  With the Bosch Security Systems Dealer program, Bosch is offering its sales partners marketing tools, marketing support and product training.

How would you rate your performance in 2006 and how much growth do you expect for this year? 

The year 2006 wave seen satisfactory.  We have seen increasing sales compared to the previous year.  We?e seen particular opportunities for better-than-average growth in Asia-Pacific, Eastern Europe and South America.  In addition, the positive trend in the call center business should continue.  We are equally optimistic about 2007.  We are seeing an increase in business in Germany, due to growing investments in security by public and transport companies.  International product sales will also drive growth forward.  Our wide spectrum of activities in global product business and in building technology is expanding in certain countries, which puts us in a good position for maintaining our growth course.  Using a continual innovation process, we are constantly renewing our extensive product portfolio.  The excellent sales and marketing support for our customers both in global product business and in building technology as well as our comprehensive range of services form a solid basis for successfully developing the company and strengthening its global market position.

How do you see the security market this year? 

The security and communications systems market is an attractive growth market; we anticipate average growth rates in the region of 5 percent worldwide in the years to come.  The Asian market is experiencing the largest growth.  We are represented by 31 sales offices in 12 countries across the region and our products are supplied to 21 Asian countries.  Likewise in North and South America, we are one of the leading providers of security technology.  In addition to our regional center in Fairport, New York, we also have a sales office in North America and Canada as well as four sales offices and two representative offices in South America.  In Europe, we have maintained a strong market position for a long time, particularly in Germany, Spain, Belgium and Holland.  With 20 sales offices and a tight-knit dealer network, we are represented in all countries. 
In the fast-growing markets of Eastern Europe and the Middle East, we achieved better-than-average business expansion.  In Poland, the Czech Republic and Hungary, we are the leading supplier of security technology.  The Bosch sales offices in Moscow, Istanbul and Dubai are also enjoying considerable success.  In those cities, we are investing further in expanding sales and service structures.

Jeanny Lim is editor-in-chief of SecurityWorld INTL.  Send your comments to swied@infothe.com.

For more information, please send your e-mails to swm@infothe.com.

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