Universal Builds a Larger Presence in the Retail Sector
Acquires Two Guard Services Companies
Feb 04, 2015, 11:35 ET
SANTA ANA, Calif., Feb. 4, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Universal Protection Service, a division of Universal Services of America and one of the largest providers of security services in the U.S., today announced it has acquired two SMS Holdings Corp. security guard companies—Valor Security Services and Brantley Security Services, extending its foray into the retail mall market.
"Valor and Brantley are both two very special companies, both with great cultures and history," said Steve Jones, CEO of Universal Services of America. "The acquisition of Valor Security Services makes Universal Protection Service the single largest retail security provider in the U.S. and further demonstrates our commitment to the space. Retail security requires a level of expertise different than most other vertical markets and there is no one better positioned or with more vertical market expertise than our company.
"Adding Brantley Security Services helps us grow strategically and geographically in several key markets and strengthens the organization's depth and array of services," added Jones. "We are excited to welcome all of our new employees and clients to the Universal Protection Service team. And we are also pleased to be able to fold our cutting edge technology and programs within the Valor and Brantley families, while creating new opportunities for the leaders of both companies. The combination of our cultures and our collection of services will make us a very special entity in the traditional security industry."
Valor and Brantley provide a variety of security related services to over 350 retail, distribution, manufacturing, office, hotel, hospitality, educational and mixed-use properties in 37 states and Puerto Rico. Together as a unit, they represent one of the 15 largest security services organizations in the country, with revenues of $130 million annually.
Valor has provided customized solutions to guard against organized crime, terrorist threats, gang activity, and emergency preparedness for retail clients since 1991. With its focus on managing threats and crowd control at major special events, Brantley rounds out a complete security solution with 85 years of experience in the industry.
Combined, the companies employ 5,000 security professionals and staff members in some 20 branch offices in various East Coast and Midwest cities.
Keith Wolken, Chairman and CEO of SMS Holdings Corp., said, "We believe that Universal is a great fit for Valor and Brantley as they are a company highly focused on delivering the highest quality security services, have a track record of success, and a stated goal to invest in and grow this business, particularly in the retail sector. Valor and Brantley have some of the most talented security professionals in the industry who bring a wealth of skill and experience to the table. We believe this marriage will create a very significant growth opportunity for the combined companies, and most importantly, the dedicated men and women of Valor and Brantley Security Services."
Universal Protection Service is the 4th largest security company in the U.S. As Universal expands its position in the industry, the company continues to provide clients with total security solutions, personalized customer service and unmatched exceptional value. This year marks Universal's 50th anniversary of providing janitorial and security solutions to clients. With the newly acquired companies, Universal boasts more than 50,000 uniformed security officers and professionals, and now functions in 47 states nationwide. To learn more about Universal Protection Service, visit www.universalpro.com.
About Universal Services of America
Founded in 1965, Universal Services of America combines an innovative mix of tradition with cutting edge systems and technology to keep pace with the ever-evolving needs of today's business environments. Headquartered in Santa Ana, Calif., with offices located nationwide, Universal employs hands-on, highly experienced management teams and continuous training to deliver consistent, high quality security solutions. Universal has four unique divisions: Universal Protection Service, which offers security professionals for a wide range of commercial properties; Universal Building Maintenance, which specializes in green cleaning services for commercial facilities; Universal Protection Security Systems, which provides full-service security systems; and Universal Fire/Life Safety Services, which offers all aspects of emergency preparation. (State licenses: 1003458, 14417, 1025514, 0600, 58361, 11-1376, A2000170). Visit us at www.universalpro.com. Keep up with the latest news at www.universal1965.com. Follow @Universal1965 on Twitter and like us on Facebook.
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SOURCE Universal Services of America