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John Nemerofsky wins 2024 SIA Lippert Award

The Security Industry Association (SIA) has named John Nemerofsky as the 2024 recipient of the George R. Lippert Memorial Award, an honour presented annually to a distinguished individual for long-term, selfless service to the security industry and to SIA. Nemerofsky will be presented with the award on Nov. 20 during the 2024 SIA Honors Night celebration. John Nemerofsky is a beacon of leadership in the security industry. With a remarkable career spanning over 25 years, he has dedicated his career to advancing the innovation and integration of security technology – protecting the people, facilities and reputations of enterprise clients nationwide. Next generation of security As a trailblazer in security integration, Nemerofsky is shaping the future, safeguarding enterprises and inspiring the next generation of security professionals. In 2019, he assumed the role of chief operating officer at SAGE Integration, a national security integration provider operating across 62 major U.S. metro areas and boasting a team of over 19,000 installer partner specialists. Under Nemerofsky’s strategic guidance, the company has become a formidable force in the security industry. During his tenure at Niscayah – now Stanley Security Systems – Nemerofsky was instrumental in the organization’s growth to over $1 billion in revenue. Driving industry advancements John contributes quarterly cues to Security Business Magazine, sharing his expertise for the advance Beyond his role at SAGE, Nemerofsky is deeply engaged in the security industry on multiple fronts. He sits on the boards of PSA and Security Sales & Integration Magazine and is chairperson of the SecurityXchange, highlighting his commitment to driving industry advancements. John contributes quarterly columns to Security Business Magazine, sharing his expertise for the betterment of the industry. Nemerofsky serves on the SIA Board of Directors and is chair of SIA’s Member Engagement and Experience Committee. As vice chair for the Foundation for Advancing Security Talent (FAST), he is committed to nurturing the next generation of security professionals. SAGE’s project managers Nemerofsky’s volunteer leadership extends to his championing of SIA’s training, certification and standards programs, including SIA Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP), the Security Project Management (SPM) training and the Certified Security Project Management (CSPM) certification program. He has ensured that all SAGE’s project managers are CSPM certified, supported SIA events, scholarships and other offerings and encouraged his team’s active involvement in programs like Securing New Ground (SNG) and the SIA Human Resources Working Group. Industry contributions Nemerofsky has been honoured with a number of prestigious awards and speaker at SIA events Notable for his industry contributions, Nemerofsky has been honoured with a number of prestigious awards and is a frequent speaker at SIA events, including delivering sessions at ISC West and SNG and presenting the first-ever Security Technician of the Year Awards at ISC East 2023. “SIA’s Lippert Award recipients represent the very best and most dedicated in our industry, with no better example than John Nemerofsky, and we are thrilled to recognise John as this year’s honouree,” said SIA CEO Don Erickson. Impactful service Erickson added: “A truly kind person, John stands out in the security industry as a driving force in innovation, business excellence and leadership, and as a generous contributor of time, expertise and goodwill through his active involvement in SIA, in other industry programs, activities and initiatives and in the larger community." "We thank him for his impactful service to our industry, his commitment to giving back and his passion for growing the security talent pipeline and fostering the next generation of industry pioneers, and we look forward to celebrating him and his outstanding achievements at SIA Honors Night.” PSA Convention in 2023 Away from the professional arena, Nemerofsky finds fulfilment in giving back to the community Recognized for his outstanding industry contributions, Nemerofsky was awarded the PSA Captains, Hang 10 and High Ride awards at the PSA Convention in 2023. He also received SIA’s Sandy Jones Volunteer of the Year Award in 2024. Away from the professional arena, John finds fulfillment in giving back to the community.  Away from the professional arena, Nemerofsky finds fulfilment in giving back to the community. As a proud graduate of the Fox School of Business at Temple University, he stays abreast of the latest industry trends, continuously expanding his knowledge to stay ahead in the ever-evolving field of security technology. As a board member of Mission 500, Nemerofsky dedicates his spare time to philanthropic endeavours, further solidifying his commitment to making a positive impact. SAGE Integration “Thank you to my SAGE Integration family for your unwavering support and to the entire Security Industry Association – Don Erickson, your staff and board of directors for your dedication and partnership,” said Nemerofsky.  “Thank you to Aiden O’Brien and the FAST Board for all your energy and passion and to Mission 500’s Tracy Larson and Janet Fenner for your generosity and drive to help children and families in need. Finally, a special thanks to my wife, Holly, for always bringing energy, enthusiasm and brilliant ideas as we work together to make our industry better every day.” Long-term service to SIA SIA Honors Night is a premier event in New York City held concurrently with ISC East SIA’s Lippert Award is named in honour of George R. Lippert, who dedicated more than 20 years of his life to SIA and the security industry. When evaluating candidates for this award, SIA’s committee considers nominees’ long-term service to SIA and the security industry, the impact of their efforts on behalf of SIA and the industry and the integrity, leadership and diplomacy displayed in their industry dealings. SIA Honors Night is a premier event in New York City held concurrently with ISC East – the Northeast’s pioneering security and public safety event, hosted in collaboration with premier sponsor SIA. SIA Honors Night – which includes drinks and networking, a top-quality dinner experience and live entertainment – celebrates exceptional members of the security industry for their leadership, commitment and service to the industry and benefits the work of FAST. SIA Honors 2024 SIA Honors Night brings together and connects up-and-coming security talent with established industry luminaries for an evening of celebration and supporting the future of the security industry.  At SIA Honors 2024, in addition to benefiting FAST’s efforts and presenting the Lippert Award, SIA will also present industry pioneers with the SIA Insightful Practitioner Award and the Progress Award. SIA Honors 2024 will be held Nov. 20 at HK Hall.

Securitas Technology marks 2 years since STANLEY acquisition

Securitas Technology proudly celebrates the second anniversary of its transformational acquisition of STANLEY Security and STANLEY Healthcare. The STANLEY businesses joined together with Securitas Electronic Security to form Securitas Technology, a $3.2B business and the world's second-largest commercial electronic security, health, and safety provider. Security and safety partner "Two years ago, we brought together the expertise and scale of two iconic security and safety organisations with rich histories to create Securitas Technology," said Tony Byerly, Global President of Securitas Technology and CEO of SecuritasTechnology Corporation. "Our clients, employees, innovative solutions, and extensive global reach have strengthened our position as a trusted partner in the security and safety industry." Electronic security and healthcare safety Securitas Technology has solidified its presence in more than 40 countries, providing a comprehensive range Securitas Technology has established a unique global position in two short years, with an unparalleled client offering to solve increasingly complex security needs and address the evolving threat landscape. With a workforce of over 13,000+ skilled employees, 10 Engineering Centres of Excellence, access to the world’s pioneering security products and technologies, and industry-pioneering digital platforms, Securitas Technology has solidified its presence in more than 40 countries, providing a comprehensive range of electronic security and healthcare safety solutions. Operational excellence "We celebrate the trust of our clients, the dedication and hard work of our employees, and the support of our partners who have been instrumental in our ongoing success," Byerly added. "As we look to the future, we remain committed to advancing the industry with innovative solutions, achieving operational excellence, and unwavering client-centricity, as we help make the world a safer place." Technology and data Securitas Technology's global footprint, local presence, operational capabilities, and scalable systems, allow it to provide industry-pioneering systems and services that meet the security needs of businesses and organisations worldwide. The company's focus on leveraging technology and data ensures that it continues to set the standard for security solutions.

Everon announces executive leadership team

Everon, also known as ADT Commercial, a pioneering security integrator and premier provider of commercial security, fire and life safety in the U.S., announced its executive leadership team since the recent completion of its acquisition by GTCR. Everon draws on an outstanding legacy of service excellence that is strengthened by over a decade of industry expertise, with many leaders having spent the majority of their careers in the industry. The organisation’s executive leadership team—led by Dan Bresingham, Chief Executive Officer—is no exception. GTCR’s acquisition Bresingham is a longtime veteran of the commercial security industry, with nearly 20 years Bresingham himself is a longtime veteran of the commercial security industry, with nearly 20 years of leadership experience that spans finance, sales strategy, go-to-market planning and operations. He most recently served as the President for ADT Commercial prior to GTCR’s acquisition in October 2023, and has also held high-level leadership positions with HSM Security, STANLEY Security, and Protection 1.  “I’ve always said that we have the most exceptional individuals in the industry pioneering and working for this organisation,” Bresingham said. “When I look at the leadership team we’ve assembled, I’m confident that their unparalleled talent, knowledge, and commitment to excellence will play a pivotal role in propelling Everon to new heights.” Everon’s executive leadership Led by Bresingham, Everon’s executive leadership team includes: Mike McWilliams, President & Chief Operating Officer McWilliams has spent over 30 years in the fire and life safety industry, most recently serving as Sr. Vice President, Field Operations for ADT Commercial. Previously, he was President and CEO of Red Hawk Fire & Security, prior to and through its acquisition by ADT in December 2018, and has held leadership positions with SimplexGrinnell and Tyco International. Mark Foley, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer Foley brings more than 30 years of industry experience to his role with Everon, previously serving as the Chief Financial Officer for ADT Commercial. His experience includes high-level positions for Tyco International and Red Hawk Fire & Security. Ken Teifer, Executive Vice President, Sales Teifer has spent nearly 35 years in the commercial security industry, and most recently held the position of Sr. Vice President, Sales for ADT Commercial. He’s been a prominent sales leader across the industry, including experience with STANLEY Security and Sonitrol. Ryan Fritts, Chief Information Officer Fritts is a nearly 20-year veteran of the commercial security and cybersecurity space, with extensive experience in security, product, technology and software delivery. He most recently served as the Chief Information Security Officer for ADT, and has previously held technology leadership positions with STANLEY Security and Protection 1. Kasia Moore, Chief Legal Officer Moore brings nearly 20 years of corporate legal experience to her role with Everon, previously serving as Vice President & Deputy General Counsel, Commercial for ADT. Prior to leading ADT Commercial’s legal team and strategy, Moore held various legal leadership roles at Carrier, United Technologies and Lennox.  Julie Perkinson-Carpenter, Chief Human Resources Officer Perkinson-Carpenter has over 25 years of experience as a creative and collaborative HR professional. Her recent role was Vice President, Human Resources at ADT, and she has held various leadership positions within ADT over her career. Beth Tarnoff, Chief Marketing Officer Tarnoff has been an award-winning marketing leader in the commercial security space for nearly 20 years, and most recently held the position of Vice President, Marketing & Communications for ADT Commercial. Prior to ADT Commercial, she led marketing programs at STANLEY Security and HSM Security.  Jay Robertson, Sr. Vice President, Organisation Transition Robertson is a 20-plus year veteran of the security industry, spending most of his career at ADT and Protection 1. He most recently served as the Sr. Vice President, Product Management for ADT Commercial, and prior to that, held the position of Sr. Vice President, Product Marketing for ADT. Ed Bacco, Vice President, Emerging Technologies Bacco brings more than 30 years of security management, physical security and project management experience and expertise to his role with Everon. He previously held the same position with ADT Commercial, and throughout his career has served in leadership roles for Aronson Security Group, Amazon and the National Transportation Security Operation Centre. Author's quote “Over the years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the value that these leaders can bring — not only to our organization, but the industry as a whole,” Bresingham continued. “Their experience, expertise, and determination are unmatched, and I know they’ll be central to our success at Everon." Customer-driven service excellence Everon was built over the last decade by some of the most trusted names in commercial security. In that time, teams remained focused on providing comprehensive, scalable solutions to address the unique needs of mid-market, national and large-scale organisations, and established a new industry standard for customer-driven service excellence and delivery.  With GTCR’s acquisition of ADT Commercial in October 2023, Everon has emerged as an innovator and service excellence champion protecting commercial people, property, and assets across industries.

Insights & Opinions from thought leaders at STANLEY Security

AI and the cloud provide new solutions to old problems at GSX 2023

Companies at GSX 2023 emphasised new ways that technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the cloud can address long-standing issues in the security market. Among the exhibitors at the event in Dallas were companies seeking creative ways to apply technology, lower costs, and make the world a safer place. Reflecting on the exhibition, here are some additional takeaways. Expanding AI at the edge  i-PRO is a company reflecting the continued expansion of edge AI capability in the security market. Today, more than half of the company’s lineup supports AI at the edge so the customer has a wide choice of form factors when seeking to leverage the feature set.  AI processing relay, extended warranty i-PRO is increasing their warranty period from 5 to 7 years, which could be a lifetime warranty in some cases I-PRO also has an “AI processing relay” device that accepts non-AI video streams and applies edge analytics. AI has progressed from a high-end technology to a feature available in a variety of cameras at different price points. i-PRO is also increasing its warranty period from 5 to 7 years, which could be a lifetime warranty in some cases depending on a customer’s refresh schedule and lifecycle management. Active Guard, MonitorCast The company’s video management system (Video Insight) is continuing to build new features including “Active Guard,” an integrated metadata sorter. Their access control platform, MonitorCast, is a Mercury-based solution that is tightly integrated with Video Insight. Their embedded recorders now have PoE built in.  “We can move at a faster pace to fill out our product line since leaving Panasonic,” says Adam Lowenstein, Director of Product Management. “We can focus our business on adapting to the market.” Emphasis on retail and other verticals  Shoplifting is a timely issue, and retail is a vertical market that got a lot of attention at GSX 2023. “We see a lot of retailers who are primarily interested in protecting employee safety, but also assets,” says Brandon Davito, Verkada’s SVP of Product and Operations. “Shrinkage is a CEO-level priority.”  “Retailers are getting more engaged with security posture, instead of letting perpetrators walk,” Davito adds. Intrusion detection Verkada has an intrusion product that will notify a central station if there is an alarm On the alarm side, Verkada has an intrusion product that will notify a central station if there is an alarm, and operators can review videos to confirm the alarm. Other capabilities seeking to discourage trespassers include sirens, strobes, and “talkdown” capabilities.  International expansion Verkada continues to expand internationally with 16 offices in all, including Sydney, Tokyo, and London. The core value proposition is to enable customers to manage their onsite infrastructure more simply, including new elements such as PTZ cameras, intercoms, and visitor management. Verkada emphasises ease of use, including a mobile application to allow access to be managed across the user base. Forging partnerships “We are committed to the channel and industry, and we continue to build relationships and expand our reach,” says Davito. Among the industry relationships is a new partnership with Convergint, which was hinted at during the show and announced later the same day. They are also expanding their partnerships with Schlage, Allegion, and ASSA ABLOY.  Working with other verticals They offer new features for K -12 schools, and a new alarm platform is easier to deploy and manage Verkada has also found success across multiple other verticals, notably healthcare, where they integrate with an electronic medical records system. They offer new features for K-12 schools, and a new alarm platform is easier to deploy and manage. They are integrating wireless locks to secure interior doors in schools, looking to secure the perimeter, and installing guest management systems. Transitioning the mid-market to the cloud  Salient is squarely focused on the “mid-market,” a large swath of systems somewhere between small businesses and enterprise-level systems. Pure cloud systems are not as attractive to this market, which has a built-out infrastructure of on-premise systems. Adding a camera to an existing system is easier and less expensive than tying it to the cloud. Benefits of cloud It’s a market that may not be ready for the pure cloud, but there are benefits to be realised from adding a cloud element to existing systems. “We are continuing to augment our premise-based solutions with added cloud capabilities and flexibility,” says Sanjay Challa, Salient’s Chief Product Officer.  The feedback Salient hears from their customers is “I want to own my data.” The hybrid cloud approach offers the right mix of control, flexibility, and unit economics. Cloud add-on capabilities We want to provide the flexibility for customers to go full-cloud as it becomes more economically attractive" Cloud add-on capabilities include bringing more intelligence about system operation to the user via the cloud. Over time, Salient expects to sell more cloud-centric offerings based on feedback from integrators and customers. “We want to provide the flexibility for customers to go full-cloud as it becomes more economically attractive over time,” says Challa.  Vaidio AI technology Salient seeks to be a transition pioneer to help customers realise the path to the cloud. Their approach is “crawl, walk, run,” and helping customers make the transition at each stage. Salient has added AI to its product offering, incorporating Vaidio AI technology from IronYun into a powerful suite and broad array of on-premise analytics, which are gaining traction. The seamless approach makes it easy for customers to embrace AI analytics, although Salient remains broadly committed to open systems. Addressing ‘soft’ features for integrators AMAG is in the process of enhancing its product line with the next generation of access control panels. However, “product” is just part of the new developments at AMAG. In addition to “hard” features (such as products), the company is looking to improve its “soft” features, too; that is, how they work with the integrator channel. Integrator channel Rebuilding a process to make your organisation more efficient, is relatively easy; it just takes a lot of persistence" “We have the depth of our legacy customer base we can learn from, we just need to close the feedback loop quicker,” says Kyle Gordon, AMAG’s Executive Vice President of Global Sales, Marketing, and commercial Excellence, who acknowledges the value of reinstating face-to-face meetings after COVID. “We are laser-focused on nurturing our integrator channel,” he says.  “Developing new features takes time, but rebuilding a process to make your organisation more efficient, that’s relatively easy; it just takes a lot of persistence,” says Gordon. More cohesive internal communication is another useful tool, he says.  Disrupting the cloud based on price  Wasabi is working to make cloud applications less expensive by offering a “disruptive” price on cloud storage, $6.99 per terabyte per month (80% less than hyperscalers). Contending “hyperscalers” like AWS are charging too much for cloud storage, Wasabi is using its own intellectual property and server equipment co-located in data centres around the world. Wasabi sells “hot cloud storage,” which refers to the fact that they only have one tier of storage and data is always accessible. In contrast, a company such as AWS might charge an “egress fee” for access to data stored in a “colder” tier.  Cloud storage “We saw that several video surveillance companies had not yet adopted cloud storage, and we saw an opportunity to make it easy to use,” said Drew Schlussel, Wasabi’s Senior Director of Product Marketing. “We just install a little bit of software that allows them to store data in the cloud and bring it back from the cloud.” Performance, protection (cybersecurity), and price Wasabi works with integrators, resellers, and distributors and also integrates with VMS companies Wasabi works with integrators, resellers, and distributors and also integrates with VMS companies such as Genetec and Milestone. Emphasising performance, protection (cybersecurity), and price, their data centres are certified to SOC 2 and ISO 27001 standards.  Faster throughput for weapons detection Xtract One is a young company focusing on weapons detection in a time of accelerated concern about gun issues post-COVID. Founded in Canada and based on technology developed at McMaster University, Xtract One has found a niche in providing weapons detection at stadiums and arenas. These customers already have budgets, and it is easy to shift the money to a newer, faster technology. Madison Square Garden in New York City is among its customers.  Cost savings solution Xtract One can increase throughput to 30 to 50 people per entrance per minute (compared to 5 to 6 people per minute when using metal detectors). The solution doesn’t require anyone to empty their pockets and the system alarms on items beyond guns and knives. Using Xtract One allows customers to reduce the number of screening lanes and security staff, providing additional cost savings, all while getting fans through the screening process in half the time. Purpose-built sensors The system uses purpose-built sensors looking for specific characteristics, such as reflective and density properties In addition to stadiums and arenas, Xtract One, formerly Patriot One, is also getting “inbound” interest from schools, hospitals, manufacturers, and other verticals that makeup 50% of their business. “We’re on a rocket ride, mainly because the weapons issues are not going away,” says Peter Evans, CEO and Director at Xtract One. The system uses purpose-built sensors looking for specific characteristics, such as reflective and density properties, all correlated by an AI engine.  Providing early warning of violence ZeroEyes is another company focused on weapons detection. Their AI gun detection system works with video images to identify if someone is “brandishing” (carrying) a weapon. In other words, the system does not detect concealed weapons. Identifying someone carrying a weapon provides early warning of a possible violent act. Increased response with AI-enables images Images are identified by AI and sent to a monitoring centre where a human confirms the image before contacting first responders. Knowing the location of a shooter enables staff to lock entry points, move people to safety, and direct first responders. The company was founded to leverage existing camera views to stop mass shootings and gun violence by reducing response times. 

Innovative security: The key to business efficiency, cost savings and more

Organisations have shifted business focus countless times since the onset of the pandemic. While many leaders have been primarily concerned with the immediate health and safety of their customers and employees, 2022 has given rise to a new trend: More than ever, business leaders are seeking security solutions that increase operational efficiency and cost savings as well as improve logistics and business insight. As working environments become more complex, organisations looking to drive higher productivity and profitability margins should consider security upgrades that prioritise integrated analytics and automation. Security solutions are more versatile than ever Organisations across the globe are seeking innovative technologies that can help improve operational efficiency without expending valuable and ever-shrinking resources. Although traditionally adopted to fulfil essential security requirements like access control and video surveillance, modern security technologies also offer a massive opportunity for increased cost savings and efficiency. Automated operations In healthcare, the monitoring information can provide a unified dashboard of fall and accident reports Updated security systems can operate automatically by gathering information about daily operations through existing security tools. This information aids profit generation and business growth by identifying crucial areas for improvement. Provided insights vary between industries. In the healthcare industry, security technology can use unobtrusive monitoring information to provide a unified dashboard of fall and accident reports in senior living communities. Using AI and ML Using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), these same systems can analyse data to help predict when a fall may occur, thus helping to prevent unsafe situations and reduce hospitalisations. In the restaurant industry, AI can signal when safety equipment may be close to malfunctioning, resulting in quicker repairs and avoiding the cost of customer dissatisfaction. In both cases, the insights provided are actionable and easy to implement. This type of automation is top of mind for many business leaders. About 78% of leaders are considering AI implementation, according to the STANLEY Security 2022 Industry Trends Report. Among those leaders, 45% are primarily interested in AI-generated analytics. Innovative safety initiatives in the hybrid era As assets move to fully remote or hybrid working environments, businesses must address new on-site concerns According to a recent Boston Consulting Group (BCG) report, 70% of managers identified full or partial remote work as a factor in increased productivity. Yet, the same report found that only 30% of managers believe their organisation is actively innovating, down 10% from the previous year. As assets move to fully remote or hybrid working environments, business leaders know their organisations must address new on-site health, safety, and security concerns. STANLEY Security research found that 72% of business leaders identify asset security as their top priority for 2022. The health and safety of employees and customers remain another primary concern at 59%. Asset tracking Even as businesses emerge from the pandemic, change remains a constant. About 30% of businesses have implemented a permanent hybrid work model. Those businesses that intend to return all employees to the office (59%) will implement those changes over the next 18 months. As the world shifts rapidly, innovative security technologies with real-time inventory and asset tracking will be crucial for maintaining a full business line of sight. Real-time location systems By monitoring asset traffic patterns, leaders can determine peak hours and strategically assign assets to improve space Real-time location systems (RTLS) ease the pain of expanded business locations and provide greater insurance for top assets, from retail inventory to critical vaccines. Up-to-date tracking information also empowers business leaders to make data-driven decisions about asset management. By monitoring asset traffic patterns, leaders can determine peak hours and strategically assign assets to improve space management and workflow. The future of work, powered by automation Modern businesses consistently struggle to do more with less. Organisations suffering losses from ‘The Great Resignation’ are particularly impacted, like labour shortages and supply chain disruptions impede daily operations, but consumer demands remain high. Resourceful business leaders are looking for ways to fill the gaps, and one solution lies in the future of machine learning, AI, and automation.  Increased individualised care When a workplace adopts automation via AI, routine tasks are fulfilled intuitively, freeing time for the human workforce to address high-impact, profit-generating initiatives. When employees focus on more complex tasks, they improve their skills in service. Adjustments like this could mean a patient receives a greater degree of individualised care or a customer gets their order in record time.  Integrated security systems Integrated security systems provide rapid threat detection and response, more accessible management tools Business leaders seeking automation should consider building a cohesive security ecosystem. When implemented successfully, integrated security systems provide rapid threat detection and response, more accessible management tools, and unmatched peace of mind. Security systems rooted in machine learning grow with an organisation. For example, once a system determines that all employees have exited a controlled facility, it can lock doors and power off heating, cooling, and lighting systems. Innovative security solutions The savings of a properly implemented security system go beyond an electric or heating bill. Automation improves security fallback features at all levels of an organisation, thus improving efficiency and safety. Most business leaders acknowledge the importance of security systems for asset safety, but true efficiency and safety must go further. As we navigate the modern working world, successful organisations will be proactive in adopting innovative security solutions.

Consolidation changing the face of the security market

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.

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