He was convinced it would cut false alarms significantly. Installers had to change the way they looked at property protection and customers should be made more responsible for their systems. Mr Hewes would be absorbing increased premium rate line charges with the extra business that would come in. "I can see my sales going up," he predicted.
SI: When did you enter the industry?
RH: In January 1961, after a short spell as a postboy at a stockbroker's office. I joined AFA, following the example of my cousin Alan Plumb, who had become an installer with Rely-a-Bell – now there's a name from the past!
Have things got better or worse since then?
Technology didn't really exist in the 60s! Things are so much better now, if fitted correctly.
What is the best thing – and the worst – about being an installer?
The best thing for me is visiting so many different sites and mixing with different cultures. The worst thing is, I still enjoy going to work – after 40 years!
If you could change one thing about the industry, what would it be?
I would like to see a better working relationship between alarm companies.
What is the biggest threat facing the industry?
Larger companies trying to buy up all the independent companies.
How has the new ACPO 2000 policy affected you?
A great deal. It has given me the opportunity to inform brokers that I conform to the policy. It gives me an opportunity for additional business.
What is the funniest thing that has happened in the job?
Wearing my new Beatle Boots to work. How women wear high heels I will never be able to understand! This was back in the 60s, I hasten to add.
Which were the most memorable installations you have ever done?
When I got my first national contract, which I took from ADT. Hewes Security and my colleagues in the NASIC group now look after more than 60 sites around the country for a chain of clothing shops.
What achievement has given you the most pleasure?
Being told that we had just become a NSCIA approved alarm installer, and extending our scope to CCTV and access control.
How do you see your business developing and adapting in the next ten years?
We will use more PC-based equipment for our engineering staff and for our office-based maintenance programme.
In the early days I worked 24 hours a day. Now it is only 20 hours
What types of installations will be growth areas for you?
Definitely CCTV and access control systems.
What type of equipment have you had most trouble with?
In the early days we changed equipment for a cheaper range, to be competitive. We soon realised being cheap is not always the best idea.
Do manufacturers take enough notice of your opinions?
We have a direct account with the manufacturers, through our NASIC group. So yes, they do listen.
What type of equipment is the most reliable?
Generally, top brands such as Menvier and DA.
Do you see DIY alarms as a threat?
They are not a threat, but DIY systems do not get installed correctly or, more importantly, looked after properly.
Do installers have enough of a say in the industry?
No. I think groups like NASIC should be contacted more, for their professional approach.
Is there too much red tape now?
No. Since we became an ISO approved company, it has made us more professional.
How has being an installer affected your private life?
What private life? In the early days I worked 24 hours a day. Now I only work 20 hours a day.
Source
Security Installer
