Convergint Acquires Ballou Fire Systems, Expanding Fire Alarm & Life Safety Business

Acquisition Will Grow Convergint’s Presence in Houston and the South-Central U.S., Bolstering Capabilities in Healthcare, Education and Commercial Vertical Markets

Convergint, a global leader in service-based systems integration, today announced it has acquired Ballou Fire Systems, LLC, a Houston-based integrator that designs, installs and services electronic life safety, security, and communications systems.

The acquisition brings an expert team to Convergint, expanding the company’s capabilities in the Houston and South-Central region and bolstering its service offerings with a focus on the healthcare, education, and commercial markets. The company’s focus on total life safety protection enables Convergint to build on Ballou’s already extensive and established network of customers and partnerships in the region.

“The cultural synergies between Convergint and Ballou are undeniable, and we have always been impressed with their dedicated team and best-in-class service,” said Sean Flint, president of United States and Canada, Convergint. “Ballou’s well established, experienced, and highly trained team of frontline colleagues greatly compliments our South-Central U.S. life safety presence.”

“By joining forces with Convergint, we’re able to help our customers take a more comprehensive approach to their critical life safety infrastructure, while supporting global customers with a presence in their local markets,” said Thomas Ballou, president and CEO, Ballou Fire Systems. “Further, Convergint’s culture of service and safety is well-aligned with our own core values, with both of our organizations dedicated to providing the tools, training, and programs so that all projects and service calls are completed successfully and without incident.”

Convergint has completed 55 acquisitions since 2001—extending its geographic reach to be closer to its customers, expanding its technological and vertical market expertise, and enhancing its global network of talented colleagues and leaders.

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