The security industry continued to grow in 2015, although it was a bit slower than expected. Most noticeably, we saw a lot of M&A activity throughout the industry, including our own new ownership under Canon. Business continues as usual, and we have and will maintain our separate brand. The industry also experienced more price pressure on hardware than in previous years.
Axis U.S. Expansion Plans 2016, IP Video, IoT
The discussion of price versus value will be a common one in 2016. There can only be one player with the lowest cost, but there is a part of the market focused just on cost. However, many companies will keep building on value and quality. IP video will remain the de facto choice in enterprise systems with IP convergence continuing and accelerating in small and mid-markets. The concept of the Internet of Security Things and integration will also continue into the next year in access control, audio, intercom, etc.
Innovation has always been a focus of ours, and 2015 was no different. Each year we reinvest in R&D to bring dozens of new products to the market. Axis’ Zipstream technology, which reduces storage and bandwidth requirements, was very well received by the industry and was recognized in the SIA New Product Showcase at ISC West. Axis also launched new Internet of Things devices, including a video door station and network horn speaker.
The U.S. Expansion Plan continues with the opening of a second regional Axis Experience Center in Irvine, Calif., and several more planned for 2016. Also in early 2016, construction will begin on Axis’ new global headquarters in Lund with space for 1,100 employees. As a public company, financial information is also available on our website under Investor Relations.
See the full coverage of 2015/2016 Review and Forecast articles here