Feenics - Experts & Thought Leaders

Invixium, a global pioneer in biometric access control and workforce management solutions, announces its participation at ISC West 2024. At the show, Invixium will exhibit its full line of NDAA-compliant, made-in-Canada, modern, and rugged biometric solutions that are specifically designed to thrive in the most unclean, hazardous, extreme, and harsh working conditions prevalent in the industrial and critical infrastructure sectors. Addressing security challenges As an integrated biometric solutions provider, Invixium has earned a global reputation for its adeptness in swiftly addressing real-world security and productivity challenges faced by its customers distinguishing itself from other players in the physical access control industry who often engage in product features and data sheet wars. “Approximately, 75% of the working population work in harsh and non-clean industries," said Shiraz Kapadia, CEO & President at Invixium. Biometric products and software Shiraz Kapadia continues, "Our biometric products and software are purposely engineered to operate in such environments where it’s needed the most."  “With 35,000 devices deployed across the toughest sites with large workforces, we’re safeguarding refineries, airports, manufacturing plants, data centres, construction sites, and critical infrastructure,” added Kapadia, enforcing the breadth of Invixium’s impact. IXM WEB 3.0 IXM WEB 3.0 adds IXM VISITOR streamlining guest security with fast, paperless registration options Attendees at the show can experience Invixium’s new all-in-one software platform, IXM WEB 3.0. With advanced layered encryption at its core for data protection, it offers a revamped UI/UX, powerful analytics, and enterprise-grade visitor management. In addition to IXM TIME – A comprehensive workforce management module, IXM LINK – Integration to the industry’s best access control software, IXM WEB 3.0 adds IXM VISITOR as part of this platform, streamlining guest security with fast, paperless registration options and a customisable dashboard. TITAN Complementing its top-tier software would be TITAN, the most rugged face recognition access control solution equipped with multi-factor authentication purpose-built for harsh industries, TFACE, a highly versatile and slim dual biometric device for enterprises, and others. Invixium’s software makes it easier for system integrators to implement biometric solutions quickly and accurately; significantly speeding up deployment and setup time. The company has established a long list of integration partners including LenelS2, Genetec, Honeywell, ACRE Security (DNA Fusion, Feenics, and AccessIt!), Galaxy Control Systems, Gallagher, Paxton, Nedap, Siemens, Schneider Electric, and more. Custom-made approach Invixium advocates that a one-size-fits-all approach does not work when it comes to security solutions. Recognising the inherent diversity across industries, Invixium champions a non-traditional, unique, custom-made approach, understanding that the security needs of a convenience store diverge greatly from those of an oil and gas facility. Invixium’s solutions attend to the distinct requirements of critical infrastructure sectors, including oil and gas, data centres, correctional facilities, research labs, pharmaceuticals, airports, higher education, and manufacturing. Within these verticals, safety and security are indisputably a non-negotiable priority. Attendees will be able to engage in live demos and discuss their project requirements with Invixium’s team of biometric experts at booth #23103.

Acre Security, a global provider of security solutions, is proud to announce its participation in Intersec 2024, taking place on 16 – 18 January 2024, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE). Over the past seven months, Acre Security has unified its operations into a single, cohesive global business. This transformation underscores its commitment to providing streamlined and efficient experiences for clients worldwide. Unified network of solutions Acre Security understands that in the interconnected world, security threats know no borders. That is why it has made it a mission to create a unified network of security solutions that can be seamlessly implemented across different countries and industries. Solution portfolio A single portfolio is designed to secure the two most valuable assets: employees and facilities At Intersec 2024, Acre Security will showcase its powerful solution portfolio that includes access control, visitor management, intrusion detection, transmission, connectivity, and cybersecurity solutions. A single portfolio is designed to secure the two most valuable assets: employees and facilities. Advanced security features Acre will be offering demonstrations for smooth migration and upgrade strategies for existing acre access solutions to cloud-based solutions. Join them for an exclusive sneak peek of cutting-edge AP03 access controllers and downstream devices, designed to provide advanced security features and improved control.  Acre is also excited to exhibit collaborations with transmission and seismic detectors for joint technology enclosures. Feenics Cloud-Based Access Control Solution Acre solutions can be delivered in three simple ways via the cloud, through an on-premise installation, or through a blended approach to meet unique needs. During the show, Acre will be showcasing Feenics Cloud-Based Access Control Solution, which is hosted in the UAE, providing localised support and service. “We are excited to be participating in Intersec 2024 and showcasing our unified global security solutions," Alexander Holmström, Global Sales Director, Acre Security, adding "We are confident that our solutions will provide our clients with the best possible security experience.”

Wavestore, a pioneer in video management software and analytics for the physical security industry, announces an exciting new chapter in the company's journey, welcoming Sam Shalaby as its new Owner. A long-standing industry entrepreneur with a proven track record of scaling innovative companies, Shalaby’s leadership will accelerate Wavestore's expansion into new markets and enable the company to deliver major edge, customer-focused solutions to an even larger audience.  Wavestore solution Wavestore has successfully combined the agility and customer-centric approach of a start-up" Under the leadership of Managing Director - Mark Claxton, Wavestore has successfully combined the agility and customer-centric approach of a start-up with the resilience of an established operation. The Wavestore solution has been instrumental in securing prestigious customer wins across the globe, from the U.S. to the Middle East, providing end-users with exceptional value while empowering integrators and consultants to expand regional sales.  Video analytics, actionable data "We’re focused and committed to investing heavily in product development,” said Mark Claxton, Managing Director of Wavestore, adding “Our suite of video analytics tools, integrations, and accessible, actionable data is truly transforming how people see their world."  Extensive Work experience Shalaby's previous experience, notably as founder and CEO of Feenics and owner of Future Security Controls, demonstrates his ability to grow businesses by leveraging cloud-based technologies and investing in talented and capable personnel while focusing on customer needs. His knowledge and expertise will catalyse to further extend the reach of Wavestore’s video management solutions.  Comments "I'm thrilled to join forces with the talented team at Wavestore,” said Shalaby, CEO of Wavestore, adding “Mark and I share a strong commitment to customer-centric innovation and growth. I believe my guidance will enable us to unlock Wavestore's full potential in the market." Shalaby was recently inducted into the SP&T News Hall of Fame for his ongoing contributions to the industry as a mentor and visionary.  Expansion, global achievements The current team at Wavestore will be complemented with additional talent in North America The current team at Wavestore will be complemented with additional talent in North America. With an engaged, motivated, and enthusiastic team, Wavestore is well-positioned to establish new partnerships and reaffirm existing ones to explore potential business prospects. Planned expansion to new locations in Canada, the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East will position Wavestore to boost its growth in untapped markets and capitalise on its global achievements amassed, while serving 21 years in the industry.  New and existing partnerships Wavestore is actively seeking new partners across all sectors that will benefit from technology that enables change-makers in operations to gain insights, make decisions, and take actions that protect people and assets, prevent losses, and innovate customer and employee experience. Existing partners are invited to reconnect and explore exciting new business opportunities together. 

Well attended and generating levels of excitement not seen since before the pandemic, ISC West may provide just the shot of adrenaline we need to drive industry success through the uncertain economic times ahead. Buzzwords like artificial intelligence (AI) and the cloud were still prevalent at the conference and exhibition in Las Vegas, but the hype of yesteryear seemed more subdued. Rather than breakthroughs to be celebrated, AI and cloud were discussed more as ways systems can realise even greater potential. Rampant cybersecurity attacks Rather than hype, discussions seemed much more practical and down-to-earth, encompassing shifting customer needs and how to address pain points. There was more discussion of the shift of security from a cost center to a profit center, where industry technologies can contribute to an enterprise’s bottom line. More companies seemed to be vigorously addressing the challenges of cybersecurity More companies seemed to be vigorously addressing the challenges of cybersecurity, although perpetually an obstacle. The industry seems more devoted than ever to protecting physical security systems in an age of rampant cybersecurity attacks. But more than in years past, it was the ISC West event itself that generated the most buzz. The crowded aisles of the exhibition seemed both reminiscent of the pre-covid past and prescient of the industry’s even brighter future. From booth to booth and attendee to attendee, the enthusiasm was both conspicuous and contagious. Everybody was thinking: ‘Wow! What a show!’ Pushing technology to the edge “The practice of physical security is about more than understanding threats, and end users are thinking now about the bigger picture of security and how networks work in the broader context of the business,” said Andrew Elvish, Vice President, Marketing at Genetec. Problems of latency and miscommunication are elements pushing technology to the network edge, he says. For example, in an access control scenario, decision-making should be as close to the door as possible to avoid network congestion, delays, or failure. Andrew Elvish, Vice President, Marketing at Genetec, displays Axis network door controller ‘powered by Genetec’ Elements pushing technology Reflecting the philosophy is a new collaboration introduced at the show called ‘Axis Powered by Genetec,’ an enterprise-level access control offering that combines Genetec Synergis software with A1210 and A1610 network door controllers by Axis Communications. Elvish says lines are blurring when it comes to edge versus cloud technologies. Rather than choosing ‘either-or,’ a blending of approaches is optimum, always ensuring that “Decision-making is close to the point of actuation,” he says. On-premise versus cloud systems Elvish also points to changing assumptions about the industry roles of on-premise versus cloud systems Elvish also points to changing assumptions about the industry roles of on-premise versus cloud systems. Historically, the assumption was that on-premise systems are most appropriate for enterprise customers, while the cloud is the best approach for small- to medium businesses (SMBs). Depending on the end customer’s needs, a system can be either or both at the same time.  Rather than debate cloud versus edge, customers should consider the outcomes they seek, and how technologies can be merged to provide those outcomes. “They should consider a solution where they do both, with the gradation of controls provided at their fingertips,” says Elvish. Combining security into one platform Unifying security and related functions on a single platform was a widely evident trend at ISC West. An example is Verkada which now offers a unified platform that includes video, access control, and intrusion detection, as well as other functions such as air quality sensors, visitor management, and a door intercom. David Tsang, Product Director of Verkada, predicts demand to combine technologies into a single platform will grow in the industry. Furthermore, as data is collected in the single system, enterprises will find new ways to ‘connect the dots’ to provide better business intelligence. Air quality sensors Verkada’s cloud-based system enables fast deployment of the single platform “Our approach to building products is based around the idea that every company has different needs, and they want technologies to integrate seamlessly and operate off the same platform,” says Tsang. In addition to seamless integration, each product must also be able to stand on its own. Tsang manages Verkada’s various product categories, including access control, air quality sensors, intercoms, etc. Verkada’s cloud-based system enables fast deployment of the single platform, and the company works with dealers to ensure delivery of a 'better partner experience.' What happens after a binge of acquisitions?  Acre Security unveiled a new corporate ‘identity’ and a big booth highlighting the technology brands the company has acquired over the last several years. Brands such as Feenics, ACTMobile, Comnet, Razberi, and others reflect Acre’s acquisition of these companies but are now being promoted as technology choices under the ‘one Acre’ approach.  Don Joos, CEO of Acre Security, looked ahead to the future of the company at ISC West Visitor management product categories Change is in the air, and the booth’s unified visual design signifies the new direction for the company, says Don Joos, Acre’s CEO. Various technologies can be delivered via the cloud, through an on-premise installation, or using a hybrid approach Acre is highlighting ACTMobile’s mustering capability, useful in the K-12 market In tying technologies together, the ACTMobile product will play a key role in two major verticals -- command-and-control and K-12 schools. Acre is highlighting ACTMobile’s mustering capability, useful in the K-12 market, which was adapted from a technology used in the cruise industry. The Acre approach is to embrace the variety of opportunities available in the access control, intrusion, and visitor management product categories within a broad definition of ‘security’ that embraces both core capabilities and ‘adjacencies,’ says Joos. Acre seeks to enable customers to protect people, facilities, and critical assets. They manage customers’ security data and provide the insights they need. Ensuring a cohesive security system A challenge in the industry is combining various single products into a cohesive whole. “There are many products that do one thing well, but it’s harder to build a cohesive security platform,” says Ryan Schonfeld, Founder and CEO of Hivewatch. Hivewatch is a software platform that performs the functions previously associated with a ‘PSIM,’ which is a physical security information management system. The term PSIM has earned a questionable reputation in the industry, plagued by added costs and the perpetual challenges of integrating with ever-changing software platforms. Information management system Hivewatch seeks to bypass other software systems and to integrate as closely as possible with devices Hivewatch seeks to bypass other software systems and to integrate as closely as possible with devices on the edge, thus avoiding the impact of software system changes. They integrate with data in a ‘different way’ that eliminates the need to conform to other software systems.  In today’s climate, the term ‘security’ could be seen as limiting when it comes to the various functions our industry’s systems can perform in the broader enterprise, says Schonfeld. Traditional enterprise reporting structures that have physical security reporting to the facilities or real estate department are limiting the broader role security can play in the enterprise. Positioning physical security Changing norms are positioning physical security to report to the CIO or CISO, thus reflecting physical security’s role in collecting and analysing data. Higher visibility within the enterprise can help security expand its influence and impact. “Security is too limiting, and it can keep us from getting a seat at the table,” says Schonfeld. “We need to shift from being a cost center to generating revenue and/or driving business — and data is the key. Rather than leading by fear, we need to show the value security can drive.”

Consolidation is a dominant trend in the security marketplace. Large companies typically swallow up smaller companies as a means of expanding both their technology portfolios and their geographic reach. Sometimes a big fish is swallowed up by an even bigger fish.   Despite the pandemic and resulting economic challenges, the security market has continued to be a desirable environment for both big players and startups, which then provide abundant acquisition targets for the larger companies. Acquisitions of Motorola Motorola Solutions has been among the most acquisitive of the larger players, recently adding several smaller companies to their growing portfolio. Just this year, Motorola has acquired Ava Security, a video security and analytics company; Calipsa, another analytics company; and Videotec, an Italian provider of ruggedized video solutions for critical infrastructure applications. Video solutions that help to enhance safety and streamline operations while supporting customers In one announcement, Motorola chairman and CEO Greg Brown stated the goal of acquisitions is “to support our customers’ evolving security needs by expanding our portfolio of intelligent video solutions that help to enhance safety and streamline operations.” Previously, Motorola Solutions acquired Envysion, a video analytics company for the retail market. On the access control side, Motorola acquired Openpath Security, a cloud-based, mobile access control provider, in 2021. Motorola entered the video surveillance business back in 2018 with the acquisition of Avigilon for around $1 billion. Also now a part of Motorola are IndigoVision and Pelco, among others. ACRE's mergers and acquisition Another company active in the mergers and acquisition market has been ACRE (Access Control Related Enterprises). The company began with a spinoff from Ingersoll Rand in 2012 to become Vanderbilt Industries. As ACRE, the parent company has been active both in acquisitions and divestitures over the next decade. Vanderbilt grew with the acquisition of Siemens’ Security Products in 2015. ACRE owned Mercury Security, a manufacturer of OEM hardware used by access control companies, from 2013 until it was sold to HID Global in 2017. The acquisition of Razberi enhances the ComNet portfolio while providing complementary technologies ACRE’s more recent access control acquisitions are RS2 Technologies (in 2019), Open Options (2018), Feenics (2021), and Matrix Systems (2021). They acquired ComNet, a manufacturer of video and data transmission equipment, in 2016. The acquisition of Razberi (in 2020) enhances the ComNet portfolio and provides complementary technologies to the access control brands. Acquisition of ACRE ACRE itself was acquired by European investment firm Triton in 2021, and Joseph Grillo, the company’s founder and CEO, announced his retirement in 2022. His knowledge of the security and access control markets helped to drive the company’s growth, including 11 successful acquisitions in all. Securitas acquiring Stanley Security  The acquisition of Stanley Security is transformational for both Securitas and the security industry Stanley Security has also made headlines. In December 2021, Securitas signed an agreement to acquire the Electronic Security Business from Stanley Black & Decker for $3.2 billion in cash. Securitas President and CEO Magnus Ahlqvist says, “the acquisition of Stanley Security is transformational for both Securitas and the security industry.” Allegion plc, global security products and solutions provider, later signed an agreement to acquire Stanley Access Technologies and assets related to the automatic entrance solutions business from Stanley Black & Decker, Inc. for $900 million. Acquisition by HID Global, ADT Inc. & Allied Universal HID Global has acquired Vizinex RFID, thus increasing its presence and relevance in key vertical markets, including healthcare/medical, manufacturing, oil and gas, data centres, etc. and adding a key technology to HID Global’s RFID tag portfolio. ADT Inc. recently expanded its geographic reach with the acquisition of Key-Rite Security, a locally owned and operated security provider specializing in access control, surveillance, intrusion, and intercom systems in Colorado and for customers across the United States. Allied Universal continues its strategic growth with the acquisition of Attenti Group, an electronic monitoring company Allied Universal has acquired Star Protection Agency, the largest Hawaiian-owned and veteran-owned security company in the state. Although Star is primarily a guard patrol service, with workers at 125 sites throughout the state, it provides a range of security technology and consulting services. Internationally, Allied Universal continues its strategic growth with the acquisition of Attenti Group, an electronic monitoring company. Allied Universal will integrate Attenti Group with G4S Monitoring Technologies, to create Allied Universal Electronic Monitoring Services. SALTO Systems making acquisition news Also internationally, SALTO Systems has made acquisition news by investing in Bluefield Smart Access, thus strengthening their portfolio of access control solutions. SALTO Systems is a manufacturer of electronic access control and operating system solutions, designed to provide a seamless, keyless and mobile experience for modern buildings. Also joining the SALTO Group is Cognitec Systems, a face recognition company. The goal is to strengthen their research, development and market reach while working with SALTO on new technologies for expanding biometric markets. SALTO strategically selected Cognitec Systems to meet market requests for adding face recognition and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to the company’s electronic access control and ticketing solutions. Acquisitions by MOBOTIX and Resideo Technologies  Resideo Technologies, Inc. entered into an agreement to acquire First Alert, Inc., a provider of home safety products Further, on the international scene, MOBOTIX has reached an agreement to acquire Vaxtor Group, Tres Cantos, Spain, an artificial intelligence (AI) based video analytics provider, specializing in Optical Character Recognition (OCR) and Deep Learning technologies. On the residential system's front, Resideo Technologies, Inc. entered into an agreement to acquire First Alert, Inc., a provider of home safety products, from Newell Brands Inc. for $593 million in an all-cash transaction. Established in 1969 and based in Aurora, Illinois, First Alert offers a strong omnichannel presence serving end-users directly through retail and e-commerce channels and professional contractors through relationships with distributors and home builders.

Mergers and acquisitions are among the most disruptive forces in the security marketplace. However, they are also both a reality and a growing trend. Whenever there is value to be leveraged, companies tend to enter into business transactions to maximise that value. For the security industry, the result is a continually shifting collection of manufacturer companies seeking new ways to provide value to customers. M&A activity continued unabated in 2021, despite residual industry challenges such as dysfunctional supply chains and lingering consequences of a global pandemic. Here are some of the larger and/or most impactful M&A transactions of 2021. Stanley Black & Decker sells to Securitas Stanley Black & Decker announces an agreement to sell most of its Security assets to Securitas AB for $3.2 billion in cash. The transaction includes Stanley Black & Decker's Commercial Electronic and Healthcare Security business lines.  The businesses carry 2021 forecasted revenues of approximately $1.7 billion. “The business is well-positioned for ongoing growth within Securitas, a global pioneer in the security industry,” says James M. Loree, Stanley Black & Decker's CEO. Openpath’s solution makes businesses more secure with multi-factor authentication Motorola acquires Openpath and Envysion Motorola Solutions adds to its security industry portfolio with the acquisition of Openpath Security Inc., a cloud-based mobile access control provider. Openpath’s solution makes businesses more secure with multi-factor authentication, enables a contactless entry experience, and can be easily scaled and managed due to its cloud-based architecture. Motorola also announces the acquisition of Envysion, a provider of video security and business analytics solutions for quick-service restaurant and retail industries. Delta Electronics buys March Networks Delta Group, a provider of power and thermal management solutions, , purchased 100% of the shares in Infinova (Canada) Ltd., owner of Canadian-based video surveillance and business intelligence company March Networks, from Infinova International Ltd. through its subsidiary Delta International Holding Limited B.V. Following the close of the transaction, it was expected that March Networks will continue to operate from its Canadian headquarters, and the March Networks executive management team will continue to lead the organization. Delta Electronics is also the parent company of VIVOTEK. APi Group acquires Chubb Fire and Security Business APi Group Corp. agreed to acquire the Chubb Fire & Security Business from Carrier Global Corporation for an enterprise value of US$ 3.1 billion. Headquartered in the United Kingdom, Chubb has approximately 13,000 employees globally and a sales and service network that spans 17 countries, serving more than 1.5 million customer sites in Europe, Asia Pacific, and Canada. APi Group is a business services provider of safety, specialty, and industrial services in more than 200 locations worldwide. Teledyne Technologies Inc. will acquire FLIR in a cash and stock transaction valued at approximately $8.0 billion Teledyne acquires FLIR Teledyne Technologies Inc. and FLIR Systems, Inc. jointly announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Teledyne will acquire FLIR in a cash and stock transaction valued at approximately $8.0 billion. Jim Cannon, President and Chief Executive Officer of FLIR, said, “We could not be more excited to join forces with Teledyne through this value-creating transaction.” Resideo adds Norfolk Wire and Electronics Resideo Technologies, Inc. acquired privately held Norfolk Wire & Electronics, based in Richmond, Virginia. Norfolk was founded in 1985 and is a regional distributor of security, telecom, network, and audio-video (AV) related products, supplies, and tools. With 11 full-service retail locations and a 43,000 sq. ft. distribution centre, Norfolk serves customers across the mid-Atlantic region and will be part of Resideo's ADI Global Distribution business, a wholesale distributor of security, AV, and low-voltage products. Triton acquires ACRE, which acquires Feenics and Matrix Triton Partners acquired ACRE, an end-to-end security solutions provider based in Dallas/USA and Dublin/Ireland. Triton is investing alongside the current management team of ACRE. Weeks later, ACRE acquired cloud-based workplace solutions company Time Data Security (TDS). Later in the year, ACRE announced acquisition of Feenics and Matrix Systems. Feenics brings cloud-based access control solutions brings cloud-based access control solutions to ACRE’s rapidly growing network of global customers while also expanding its portfolio to support the growing demand for cloud-based security solutions. Matrix enables ACRE to expand the addressable market for the company’s technology portfolio. Brivo, Inc. and Crown PropTech Acquisitions have entered into an agreement making Brivo a publicly listed company Brivo becomes publicly traded through the merger Brivo, Inc., a cloud-based access control and smart building technologies company, and Crown PropTech Acquisitions, a publicly traded special purpose acquisition company (SPAC), have entered into a definitive merger agreement that will result in Brivo becoming a publicly listed company. The transaction values the company at a pro forma enterprise value of $808 million. Upon closing, the combined company will operate as Brivo, and its Class A common stock is expected to be listed under the ticker symbol “BRVS.” Nice buys Nortek Security Nice, a global manufacturer of smart home, security, home, and building automation solutions, , acquired Nortek Security & Control from Melrose Industries. Nortek Security & Control is a developer of technology for security, home automation, control, power, AV and entertainment, access control, health, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems, for residential and commercial markets. Eagle Eye acquires Uncanny Vision Eagle Eye Networks, a cloud video surveillance solutions company, has acquired Uncanny Vision Solutions, an artificial intelligence (AI) analytics and Solutions Company. The acquisition accelerates the company’s leadership in providing AI and analytics, to make customers’ businesses more efficient and the world a safer place. The acquisition also includes research and development (R&D) capabilities and a new regional office located in Bangalore, India.