Forum Topics IMB IMB CEO Meeting

Pinned straw:

Last edited 6 months ago

This was an interesting chat. Frankly, it doesn't seem like that sexy a business, but I get the sense that Dennison gets the key strengths of the business and is playing to that.

Specifically, forget the tech -- yeah it's cool and getting better and cheaper, but they are (mostly) resellers. IMB is a SERVICE business -- they provide the "do it for me" solution.

Despite the initial expectations of a straightforward exit, the reality was a need for a hands-on approach to fix integration issues and drive growth.

There's a tailwind with increased adoption of these systems (lower prices, better tech and a huge under-penetration in Aus/NZ), and people value trust and reputation more than anything (according to Dennison). Scale matters a lot for this kind of business, and they are now the largest of its kind in Australia and have done a lot of work improving operational effectiveness, righting the offering and improving the fundamentals.

Also, this is NOT a roll-up (although clearly was previously and acquisitions have, to date, been a big part of the growth story.)

Dennison reckons he can double the revenues in the coming years, and get around 25% EBITDA margins

Corporates are now the focus, but also do personal homes and DIY security solutions.

Leveraging the trusted ADT brand to enhance market presence. This business had been unloved as part of a larger global entity, but it's proven to be a good addition in terms of brand recognition.

The focus appears to be on sustainable and profitable growth rather than aggressive expansion.

His focus is culture, customer focus, and strategic planning.

Was quite frank about past mistakes: he underestimated the capital cost of upgrading their fleet from 3G to 4G, which has significantly pulled resources and focus away from organic growth to retaining existing customers.

The company has been double-costed during the transition from JCI, as they have been building their internal staff while still paying JCI for services. This additional cost is expected to end by July.

Based on the forward guidance for FY24, they look to be on a EV/EBITDA multiple of ~6. Not too demanding *IF* the growth aspirations are realistic, even roughly.

occy
Added 6 months ago

I just caught up on this interview. I'd never heard of this mob although I have heard of ADT. After watching this is definitely a company I'll have to do a deep dive on as it has piqued my interest for a variety of reasons.


Something I liked with Dennison in the interview was his honesty in showing his vulnerability given his apprehensiveness about running the company along with the important decisions that need to be made to drive it forward. Not that he isn't confident or lacking the ability to be MD as he clearly knows what he is talking about but often I find people in these positions to be very arrogant or guarded. This was something that resonated with me and gives me a feeling of trust in him as a leader given his candor.


I previously worked as a shopfitter so have come across numerous security businesses in that time doing fitouts of commerical property. It certainly did come across to me as a fragmented industy and if IMB are able to be a leader in consolidating the trade then it could be a very fruitful investment. Might be a slow burn however but I'm definitely adding this company to my watchlist.

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