Back in 1991, Steve Jackson spotted something most people missed: a business opportunity that wouldn’t just survive economic storms but actually thrive through them. The reason was simple. When it comes to fire and security, businesses don’t have a choice. It’s essential. It’s mandatory. It’s required by law.
Fast forward 34 years, and that single-office operation has transformed into a multi-award-winning nationwide franchise network that’s setting the industry standard in fire protection and security solutions.
But here’s what really matters to you: we’re just getting started.
A Fire Protection Franchise Built on Trust and Compliance
We support businesses with practical, dependable services that help them stay safe and compliant:
- Fire safety inspections
- Fire alarm installation and maintenance
- Fire extinguisher servicing as part of routine fire protection services
- CCTV and access control systems
- Emergency lighting installation
- 24/7 fire and security monitoring
I’m Steve Jackson, the founder and managing director of Jackson Fire & Security, based in Mold. I started the company 34 years ago, drawing on my previous sales experience across various sectors. The concept of fire safety attracted me like no other, as there was a clear demand for fire extinguisher installation and servicing, reinforced by legal requirements for compliance. Over the years, we’ve expanded our services to include the installation and maintenance of a wide range of fire and security systems, serving businesses across the UK.
What are your aims for the business?
Our goals are straightforward: to continue delivering exceptional service, grow our operation, and expand nationwide through our fire safety franchise network.
At present, we operate from our head office in Mold and have an expanding network of franchisees and additional territories available for franchise opportunities.
In our industry, responding quickly to emergency call-outs is essential, and providing a reliable, local service for planned maintenance is equally important. Franchising a fire and security business allows us to extend our reach across the UK while maintaining a localised, high-quality service.
Describe your role.
I’m deeply involved in the day-to-day operations of Jackson Fire & Security, attending networking events and client meetings and having a hands-on open-door approach with our franchisees. I’ve appointed managers for technical support, accounts, marketing, compliance national accounts and sales, who provide me with weekly updates. Additionally, I oversee making key strategic decisions from our head office to support and guide the franchise network.
What’s the best part of your role?
For me, the best part of my role is still being hands-on and actively involved in the day-to-day running of the business. I’ve always believed in maintaining an open-door policy, and I make it a priority to be available for our franchisees whenever they need guidance or support. Whether it’s helping them navigate challenges, celebrating their successes, or offering advice on how to grow their fire protection franchise, I enjoy being a part of their journey.
Being hands-on also means staying connected with our team and customers, ensuring we’re delivering the high standards of service we’re known for. I thrive on the variety of each day—working closely with franchisees, attending meetings, and overseeing the key decisions that drive the business forward. Knowing I’m making a difference both to the success of our franchise network and to the safety of the communities we serve is what makes the role so rewarding.
Was this role always your aspiration?
I always aspired to run my own business, though I didn’t initially know which sector I’d end up in. My sales background provided a strong foundation, and I’ve learned the rest along the way. Building a talented team with specialist skills in key areas has been crucial to our success. While I couldn’t have predicted turning a local company into a nationwide fire safety business, it’s something I’m especially proud of.
Any special milestones or memories?
Winning a large University contract to maintain fire alarms across 210 buildings was a pivotal moment for us. It showcased our ability to handle large-scale projects and opened the door to further significant contracts involving multiple properties. While SMEs remain at the heart of our business, this achievement demonstrated that we could thrive in larger markets.
How do you unwind outside of work?
I have three children, who keep me busy! We’re a family of skiing enthusiasts, and we can often be seen heading off to the slopes on our next family adventure.
If not this, what would you like to do?
In an ideal world, I’d spend my days fishing or sailing. That said, I genuinely enjoy what I do now. In my earlier career, I travelled the country as a national sales manager for a food manufacturing company. I’m grateful to now deliver such a vital service on a local level through our franchise network.
What advice would you give to someone starting out?
Focus on the basics: excellent customer service, ethical business practices, and keeping your accounts in order. Treat everyone—employees, suppliers, and customers—with respect and integrity. My favourite mantra is: “Employ for attitude, train for quality.” This approach has become the cornerstone of our recruitment process.
MORE THAN A BUSINESS – AN OPPORTUNITY
While other industries rise and fall on consumer whims, fire and security services remain stubbornly, reliably essential. Businesses need what we provide.
That creates a business with built-in resilience.
Our franchisees enjoy:
- Recurring revenue from maintenance contracts
- High-value installation projects
- Emergency call-out services
- Multiple revenue streams from complementary services
- The backing of a proven brand with three decades of credibility
There’s something deeply satisfying about building a business that genuinely protects people and property. Add financial potential to that purpose, and you’ve got something truly special.
With territories still available across the UK, your opportunity to secure an exclusive area in a fire and security franchise is now. Don’t wait for someone else to claim your territory.