Linear Closes on Acquisition of 2GIG
Linear, LLC, subsidiary of Nortek, Inc., has closed on its acquisition of 2GIG Technologies, which will become part of the security and control group within Linear. The acquisition of 2GIG was announced by Nortek in February 2013.
With the acquisition, Linear's dealers and OEM partners gain access to 2GIG's Go!Control platform, the first widely-adopted, integrated security and automation system that includes a system CPU, touchscreen interface, Z-Wave radio for automation, cellular radio for communications with a central station, and narrow-band RF for communicating with security sensors. 2GIG also provides a wide range of wireless peripherals including thermostats, panic buttons, key fobs, glass break detectors and wireless carbon monoxide detectors, all of which can be integrated into a home automation system that can be remotely monitored, managed and controlled via the Internet.
"Acquiring 2GIG positions Linear as one of the world's top-tier hardware developers and manufacturers in the rapidly growing residential security and home automation markets," said Michael O'Neal, president of Linear. "We're especially excited about the synergy between the brands since 2GIG offers products that can be leveraged by Linear and its dealers to grow their businesses. At the same time, Linear offers products that can expand and enhance the 2GIG home automation platform, potentially opening doors to new market opportunities."
"Adding 2GIG's technologies and products to the Linear portfolio strengthens our product pillars of security and control, access and integration, and health and wellness," said Duane Paulson, senior vice president of product and market development for Linear. "Our dealers and channel partners now have more choices."
"This is an absolute perfect fit for 2GIG," said Lance Dean, 2GIG co-founder. "We've known Nortek/Linear from the very beginning. They've been an instrumental part of our success."
As operations are folded together, 2GIG will remain an iconic brand under Linear, benefitting from Nortek and Linear resources that include manufacturing infrastructure and OEM partner connections across broad segments.
Linear is a leading manufacturer of security and access control products, personal emergency response systems (PERS), garage door openers and wireless devices. 2GIG dealers will have additional opportunities in these segments and from Linear's suite of interactive service offerings.
Linear co-developed and has manufactured the Go!Control platform for 2GIG since it was formed in 2007. 2GIG is a major supplier to Vivint, a large home automation service company in North America. The acquisition includes a five-year supply agreement with Vivint, making the company an important customer for Linear. The deal was finalized with Nortek, purchasing all the outstanding stock of 2GIG for approximately $135 million on a cash- and debt-free basis.