In the mid 70’s he established and owned the security industry’s largest and most successful distribution business, Gardiner Security Ltd. After being diagnosed with cancer in 2006, a battle he appeared to be winning, he suffered a heart attack and died suddenly in December, aged 57.
Peter Geoffrey Phelps Gardiner was born in Norfolk. Following spells in farming, fibre glass and textiles, he saw an opportunity in the growing security industry and in the mid 70s he established Gardiner Security Ltd, which was subsequently sold to ASH and is now part of Honeywell Ademco.
Hugely influential in the market place, he had an in-depth knowledge of what was going on in the industry that was second to none. A man of great contradictions, as the perfectionist he could, at times, be very difficult to please. At other times, hugely generous and warm-hearted, puffing his trade-mark pipe, he would go out of his way to help others and he donated generously to charities.
He had a down to earth approach and made a point of taking time to talk to staff at all levels. Not everyone appreciated his direct approach, however, and his habit of seemingly courting controversy was at times frustrating for his fellow directors at Gardiner Technology, the successful company he set up after leaving Gardiner Security. His considerable business acumen was sometimes greatly overshadowed by this controversy, and unfairly so.
Charismatic to many, he generated a warmth of feeling that was difficult to explain to many who felt they knew him but rather only knew of him via the industry’s many stories. Characteristically, some with whom he had not enjoyed good relationships were amongst the first to offer genuine support when his recent illness was diagnosed.
Ironically, once he had recruited the very professional team of directors and management at Gardiner Technology, he devoted himself to pursuing his other interests. He sold out in 2001 and split his time between his homes in Rochdale and Florida. At his very well attended funeral service there was standing room only inside and many stood outside to pay tribute. He is survived by his son, Lee, who also works in the security industry.
I’m saddened to read this, after telling the tale of how I came to know Geoff to my son, & he looked him up on t’internet. Many years ago I was a BT field engineer in Rochdale area – Geoff wanted the new office phone system fitted over Christmas shut down & it became my job. As mentioned, Geoff was generous & he ‘tipped’ me for getting the job done – even throwing me the keys for the weekend to his Porsche 928! Quite a thing back then for a 23 yr old to drive! 🙂 RIP Geoff – you… Read more »