Allied Universal Acquires Chicago-Based Advent Systems, Inc.

Allied Universal, a security and facility services company in North America, recently announced the acquisition of Advent Systems, Inc.-a low-voltage integrator of IP video, access control, structured cabling and audio/visual systems based in Elmhurst, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

"Adding Advent Systems helps us grow strategically and geographically especially within the Chicago market," said Steve Jones, CEO of Allied Universal. "We are excited to continue our strategy of expanding our technology division in order to offer highly advanced solutions for our clients."

With revenues exceeding $42 million and 125 employees, Advent systems, Inc. has been providing integrated technology solutions since 1994. With offices in Chicago and Little Rock as well as satellite operations in Texas, the company helps protect property and assets with design, installation and service of integrated electronic security systems.

"For more than 25 years, we've been dedicated to providing our customers with the highest level of service and quality," said Michael Walsdorf, president of Advent Systems, Inc. "We believe Allied Universal supports our business strategy and overall core values, which will result in a continuation of that high level of service and quality to our clients. We're also thrilled to present a path to the future to our employees, who have been an integral part of our growth and success from the beginning."

The addition of Advent Systems will expand Allied Universal Technology Services division within the Midwest region. Allied Universal Technology Services provides electronic access control, video surveillance, fire/life safety, alarm monitoring, emergency communications, hosted /managed services and a variety of Global Security Operating Center (GSOC-as-a-Service) offerings.

"I have known Mike Walsdorf and John Lothrop for 25 years and have successfully partnered with them on many occasions," said Carey Boethel, President of Dallas-based Allied Universal® Technology Services. "It is truly an honor to be partnering with them again as we continue to expand our national footprint."

Advent Systems was represented by Stifel in the transaction.

Featured

  • Cost: Reactive vs. Proactive Security

    Security breaches often happen despite the availability of tools to prevent them. To combat this problem, the industry is shifting from reactive correction to proactive protection. This article will examine why so many security leaders have realized they must “lead before the breach” – not after. Read Now

  • Achieving Clear Audio

    In today’s ever-changing world of security and risk management, effective communication via an intercom and door entry communication system is a critical communication tool to keep a facility’s staff, visitors and vendors safe. Read Now

  • Beyond Apps: Access Control for Today’s Residents

    The modern resident lives in an app-saturated world. From banking to grocery delivery, fitness tracking to ridesharing, nearly every service demands another download. But when it comes to accessing the place you live, most people do not want to clutter their phone with yet another app, especially if its only purpose is to open a door. Read Now

  • Survey: 48 Percent of Worshippers Feel Less Safe Attending In-Person Services

    Almost half (48%) of those who attend religious services say they feel less safe attending in-person due to rising acts of violence at places of worship. In fact, 39% report these safety concerns have led them to change how often they attend in-person services, according to new research from Verkada conducted online by The Harris Poll among 1,123 U.S. adults who attend a religious service or event at least once a month. Read Now

  • AI Used as Part of Sophisticated Espionage Campaign

    A cybersecurity inflection point has been reached in which AI models has become genuinely useful in cybersecurity operation. But to no surprise, they can used for both good works and ill will. Systemic evaluations show cyber capabilities double in six months, and they have been tracking real-world cyberattacks showing how malicious actors were using AI capabilities. These capabilities were predicted and are expected to evolve, but what stood out for researchers was how quickly they have done so, at scale. Read Now

New Products

  • QCS7230 System-on-Chip (SoC)

    QCS7230 System-on-Chip (SoC)

    The latest Qualcomm® Vision Intelligence Platform offers next-generation smart camera IoT solutions to improve safety and security across enterprises, cities and spaces. The Vision Intelligence Platform was expanded in March 2022 with the introduction of the QCS7230 System-on-Chip (SoC), which delivers superior artificial intelligence (AI) inferencing at the edge.

  • FEP GameChanger

    FEP GameChanger

    Paige Datacom Solutions Introduces Important and Innovative Cabling Products GameChanger Cable, a proven and patented solution that significantly exceeds the reach of traditional category cable will now have a FEP/FEP construction.

  • HD2055 Modular Barricade

    Delta Scientific’s electric HD2055 modular shallow foundation barricade is tested to ASTM M50/P1 with negative penetration from the vehicle upon impact. With a shallow foundation of only 24 inches, the HD2055 can be installed without worrying about buried power lines and other below grade obstructions. The modular make-up of the barrier also allows you to cover wider roadways by adding additional modules to the system. The HD2055 boasts an Emergency Fast Operation of 1.5 seconds giving the guard ample time to deploy under a high threat situation.