PRESS RELEASE
London, 3 October 2018: 75% of UK consumers either own a smart home device or are considering a purchase, according to Swann, the global leader in DIY security.
The new Swann Smart Index, which aims to map UK consumers’ changing opinions towards smart homes and security, also reveals that 72% of consumers believe smart home technology does or could improve their life.
Consumers say that the most desirable benefits of smart home technology are security and peace of mind (37%), followed by making life easier (32%) and saving energy (31%).
Smart home technology is clearly on the rise in the UK, with 33% of consumers now owning at least one smart home device.
Perhaps surprisingly, Belfast is the UK’s smartest city, with 77% planning a smart home purchase in the next six months. By comparison, 65% of Londoners are planning a similar purchase.
Those who already own smart home equipment spent an average of £156.45 per household in the past year, and a majority (62%) are considering a purchase in the next six months. Smart lighting (22%), smart thermostats (18%) and smart security equipment (17%) top consumers’ shopping lists. 13% are considering a smart video doorbell purchase.
Swann’s research shows that voice control is close to reaching ‘tipping point’ in the UK, with 49% of consumers having used voice control at home or on their phone.
17% of consumers own home security equipment, with 21% wanting smart security products to keep an eye on their pets – that’s more than double the amount of those who want smart cameras to keep tabs on their children.
Interestingly, consumers said they would be most upset if sentimental items such as pictures and mementos were stolen from their home (26%). This dwarfs the amount of those who would be most upset if their car was stolen (6%) and suggests that savvy consumers should be investing in smart indoor security cameras from the likes of Swann.
Paul Birch, Vice President Europe at Swann, says: “The smart home market is booming in the UK, with an ever-increasing number of homes incorporating smart technology such as smart lighting or smart security kits.”
Paul Birch continues: “The ability of these products to make life easier is a significant pull for consumers. However, we’ve found that above all else, people want smart products to keep their homes and families safe. That’s why we recently launched the first wired multi-camera CCTV kit to incorporate Google Assistant voice control, which allows users to use voice commands to see live video from home security cameras on their TV.”
Changing attitudes are impacting sales. IHS Technology forecasts sales of Smart security devices will rise 45.2% in 2019 compared to sales of Connected (or ‘non-smart’) security devices at 12.2%*.
The release of the Swann Smart Index kicks off Crime Prevention Month in October, during which time Swann is helping individuals and communities become safer. With advice, exclusive deals and promotional pricing on the latest security solutions, it’s the perfect time for consumers to ensure their homes and families are safe.
* Source: IHS Technology – EMEA Market, Consumer DIY Video Surveillance Report September 2018.
About Swann
Swann is a global leader in Do-it-Yourself video surveillance with a proud 30-year history, dating back to 1987, providing innovative security and consumer electronics solutions. Swann creates and stands behind the world's smartest, most intuitive and best value security solutions to empower consumers to protect, and stay connected to, their home or business no matter where life takes them. With offices in the USA, Canada, U.K., Australia, China and Hong Kong, and distribution partners around the globe, Swann is a key player in the global security market. Swann's products are available from leading retailers and distributors such as Dixons Carphone, PC World Currys, Screwfix, Costco Wholesale, Exertis, Best Buy, Amazon.com, Fry's Electronics, Lowe's, Menards, JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman and Bunnings Warehouse. Swann's vision is to be the world leader in smart security solutions, taking care of people and making every home and business a safe place. Follow Swann via social media to stay up-to-date: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
