Would this be saleable in USA
 

I don`t know what it`s like in the USA, but over here in the UK there seems to be a disturbing increase in assaults on the elderly, some are
just too trusting and open their doors to anyone.

My friend`s father is about to go into production with a motion activated door security chain, as
you approach the door a voice says "Warning!
Check caller`s identity, check identity!". Also
if the door has been opened, when closed a voice
says "Please replace the security chain".

There is a definate "need" for this product, but
I have slight reservations because most elderly
people I know seem very set in their ways, my own
parents being a perfect example :o)

Anyway, does the board think there is a market
for this product in the USA (or other countries),
and if so who might be interested in the distribution?

Thanks for your time

Roger

Re: Would this be saleable in USA
 

Roger - I think the concept would sell here. My mother and two aunts are in their eighties, live alone and are trusting as you noted. However, I'm the guy that would buy your product for their increased safety(and would probably have to install it as well!)

The elderly may be set in their ways, but their adult children can help them take precautions. So, I'd run targeted tests on baby boomers and other adult children from 35 - 55.

You'd have to test loudness, tone of voice, etc., but eventually a successful model will evolve for the US market - may be the same as in the UK or a little different by region.

As for distribution, you could place the item in various catalogues, run press releases and look for distributors like the Safety Store chain in malls across the US. You also might be able to JV with alarm system installers, making your product a bonus or loss leader for their major alarm systems. If the product comes in self-contained kits, you might sell them on eBay and other auction/online store sites.

Hope the above ideas help - email me if you want to discuss further.

Good luck,

Bob

Re: Would this be saleable in USA
 

Excellent idea Roger!

But, it's not just the elderly who are concerned about their safety. Where I live, assault on women (non-domestic) is on the raise. You may find your market is different depending on the area. I would say around here it would be young woman who live alone in apartments.

Re: Would this be saleable in USA
 

This is something that would have to be installed by someone else. In my experience as a carpenter the elderly do not like installing their own gadgets. If I were you I would consider a package... such as adding a peephole. I would also look into a more secure chain. Kicking the door in can simply break the chain locks on most homes. Then market your chain as an upgrade, opening the doors to apartment complexes (no pun intended) and more.

As far as a market you could try contacting retirement communities or place adds in local papers. In my area we have "Mature Lifestyles" which is a free publication to those over 50.

If you are ambitious you could try and hook up with security companies and sell to them. They would handle the installation of the product. You could also contact Handyman services and sell to them as well. You could also contact a mail order company like "Harriet Carter" (I think that’s the name) and supply to them.

Just some quick thoughts off the top of my

Re: Would this be saleable in USA
 

Roger,
I'd like to talk to you about marketing this product for/with you. Please email me to discuss it further.
I live in the New York Metro area and I can tell you that your product will sell like hotcakes here. With the heightened sense of awareness since 9/11, most everyone is concerned with providing more security for their family. This is an excellent way to do just that.
Because of the nature of the product, I can see this product selling GREAT via door-to-door sales. The moment a prospect opens the door for the salesperson, without asking who it is, they've already sold themselves on why they need the product. Please email me to talk more about this.
Joe Cooper