Anixter International Inc. - Experts & Thought Leaders

Wesco International, a pioneering provider of business-to-business distribution, logistics services and supply chain solutions, is now making its entroCIM digital solution available globally to help more organisations better monitor and control their building operations using data. entroCIM is a central intelligence manager (CIM) software solution that aggregates data from disparate building devices and systems into a single digital interface.  ROI of entroCIM  The digital solution also complies with global regulations like the European Union’s GDPR Using entroCIM, building owners and operators can access real-time building system data, schedule maintenance, control building operations and get predictive insights into what’s happening in one or more facilities – all in one place. This can help them manage energy use, reduce maintenance costs, optimise space, improve safety and increase productivity. With its global presence, Wesco Anixter can help organisations deploy and maximise the ROI of entroCIM in any part of the world. The digital solution also complies with global regulations like the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Wesco Anixter’s innovation solutions entroCIM is the latest addition to Wesco Anixter’s innovation solutions portfolio, which can help organisations know more and do more by using the connected technologies in their facilities. “Digital solutions like entroCIM combined with Wesco Anixter’s unique position at the centre of the value chain allow us to collaborate and co-innovate with integrators and manufacturers like no one else can,” said Bill Geary, Executive Vice President and General Manager – Communications & Security Solutions, Wesco. Number of devices and systems entroCIM, acquired by Wesco Anixter this year, monitors millions of square feet across data centres Geary added: “The number of devices and systems being connected in buildings is only growing. Together with our partners, we can make the whole of that connected ecosystem greater than the sum of its parts, helping customers gain deeper insights and create more efficient ways of operating.” entroCIM, acquired by Wesco Anixter earlier this year, already monitors millions of square feet across data centres, commercial buildings, airports and universities. IT/OT convergence Through an open API architecture and out-of-the-box connectivity with industry-standard protocols, entroCIM acts as an aggregation layer for multiple operating systems and accelerates IT/OT convergence – helping to drive better visibility for data centre and building operations. Wesco Anixter represents the international go-to-market brand of Wesco and brings to life the company's mission to build, connect, power and protect the world to its customers and supplier partners in the regions of APAC, CALA and EMEA.

Secure Logiq is proud to mark the second anniversary of its regional headquarters in Business Bay, Dubai, on November 7, 2024. Impact in Dubai Since opening the office in 2022, Secure Logiq has made significant strides in the Middle East, forging impactful partnerships, winning industry awards, and supporting high-profile projects across the region. Driven by the immense potential and unique demands of the Middle Eastern market, Secure Logiq’s Dubai office has made its presence known over the past two years.  Support and localised approach Where large-scale projects and extended video retention periods are the norms, the regional headquarters has enabled Secure Logiq to respond to the needs of the market with dedicated support and a localised approach, which has led to major milestones and high-impact collaborations: Intersec Saudi Arabia 2022 – Partnered with industry leaders Milestone and Seagate, strengthening the company’s presence in the Saudi market. Intersec Dubai 2023 – Powered the technology solutions on the Axis stand, showcasing advanced integrations with BriefCam, Vaxtor, and Quanika, among other technology partners. Award-winning sustainability efforts – Honoured with the Intersec Award for Security Sustainability Product/Service of the Year in 2023 for efforts to offset carbon emissions in the electronic security manufacturing sector Expansion of the regional network – Developed partnerships with distributors such as Agility Grid, Anixter, VNS, and 360 Security, creating a robust distribution network. Major project wins – Delivered solutions for prestigious clients such as Dubai Holdings, Dubai Dry Docks, and the Saudi Port Authority, alongside completing Secure Logiq’s first multi-million-dollar smart cities project in Iraq. Secure Logiq’s collaborative approach has also led to the formation of technology alliances with major players including Axis Communications, Milestone Systems, Lenel, Seagate, Bosch, and IntelexVision. Key additions The Dubai office has also welcomed key additions to the team since its opening, including experienced professionals like Uttunga Jayewardene, Shee Yusuf, and Elie Georges El Murr. Anand Subbiah, Regional Director at Secure Logiq comments, “This growing team has been instrumental in driving our expansion and enhancing customer support across the region.” Memorable moments In addition to its business milestones, Secure Logiq’s journey in the Middle East has included a few memorable (and quirky) moments, such as: Consuming 1,270 litres of bottled water in the Dubai office. Accumulating 432 tube journeys and 48 wet shaves along the way. And, of course, donning 8 different bow ties for various special occasions and events. Subbiah reflects on the two-year journey, “With our amazing team and strong partnerships, we feel ready to support the Middle East’s growing needs of video technology and we are excited to continue contributing to this region’s fascinating security landscape.”

i-PRO Co., Ltd. (formerly Panasonic Security) is pleased to announce that security industry veteran, James Rothstein has been appointed as Global Executive Advisor. In his new role, Rothstein will work closely with i-PRO’s Leadership Team to develop go-to-market strategies aimed at expanding the company's global footprint and driving strategic growth. Prior roles of Rothstein  Rothstein brings over 30 years of executive experience in the security industry. Currently, he serves as Chairman of the Security Industry Association (SIA) Board of Directors. Before joining i-PRO, he was an Operating Partner at Lee Equity, a New York-based private equity firm. Before joining i-PRO, he was an Operating Partner at Lee Equity, a New York-based private equity firm He was also Senior Vice President of Global Security Solutions at Anixter International, overseeing the firm’s $2 billion global security and fire business. Prior to that, he served as Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, Executive Vice President, and Principal for Tri-Ed Distribution, North America's largest independent security distributor, which was sold to Anixter in 2015. i-PRO’s position "We are extremely pleased to be partnering with James," stated Masato Nakao, i-PRO’s CEO, adding "He has a long track record of growing companies, and his expertise will be invaluable in guiding our strategic initiatives and further solidifying i-PRO’s position as a global pioneer in the security industry." "After concluding my tenure as Chair of SIA, I was presented with numerous opportunities, and I am honoured to join i-PRO," stated James Rothstein. i-PRO's strategy James Rothstein adds: "What stood out to me was the team's dedication and their steadfast commitment to quality and engineering excellence. The impressive range of new products introduced over the past two years speaks to their innovative spirit." He continues, "i-PRO's strategy of nurturing deep, meaningful relationships with a select group of loyal integrators is a proven model for creating enduring partnerships. I am eager to contribute to the company’s ongoing success, driving innovation and fostering growth for i-PRO and its valued community of channel partners and systems integrators."

Consolidation continued in the physical security marketplace in the turbulent year 2020. There were several mega-deals in addition to shuffling among small and medium-sized companies. Here is a sampling of M&A from this year, compiled from our archive of company news. With the changing economic climate, how much more is ahead in 2021? Stay tuned. Wesco merges with Anixter WESCO International, Inc., a provider of business-to-business (B2B) distribution, logistics services and supply chain solutions, announced it completed its merger with Anixter International Inc., creating a premier, global B2B distribution and supply chain solutions company. Anixter becomes a wholly owned subsidiary of WESCO International. ACRE acquires Razberi ACRE acquired Razberi Technologies, Farmers Branch, Texas, and the product line of intelligent video appliances, automated security software and health monitoring software will be added to and sold under the ComNet brand and portfolio of products. ComNet will now be selling Razberi products through its established channels. Motorola acquires IndigoVision Among the benefits is enhanced geographical reach across a wider customer base Motorola Solutions says the IndigoVision range of products, global presence and customer base are ‘highly complementary’ to Motorola Solutions' existing presence in video security. Among the benefits is enhanced geographical reach across a wider customer base. Motorola acquires Pelco “Pelco’s track record of innovation, internationally recognised brand, global channel and customer installed base enable us to further expand our global footprint with enterprise and public safety customers,” said Greg Brown, Motorola Solutions’ Chairman and CEO, about the iconic brand. Johnson Controls swallows Qolsys Qolsys Inc., residential and commercial security and smart-home manufacturer, enhances Johnson Controls global innovation platform, delivering next generation security and smart building solutions. JCI had already owned a majority stake in the company since 2014. ADT and Google Home partnership The partnership will combine Nest’s award-winning hardware and services, powered by Google’s machine learning technology, with ADT’s installation, service and professional monitoring network to create a more helpful smart home and integrated experience for customers across the United States. Upon the closing of Google’s equity investment in ADT, Google will own 6.6% of ADT’s outstanding aggregate common equity. Securitas acquires STANLEY in Five Countries The acquisition is aligned with Securitas’ ambition to double the size of its security solutions Securitas acquired STANLEY Security’s electronic security businesses in Germany, Portugal, Switzerland, Singapore and India. The acquisition is aligned with Securitas’ ambition to double the size of its security solutions and electronic security business and expands Securitas’ electronic security footprint and capabilities. Allied Universal to Buy G4S Ending the year on a high note, the boards of directors managing Allied Universal and G4S reached an agreement on the terms of a recommended cash offer. The deal brings to a close a six-month bidding war for G4S. The combined business is expected to generate approximately $18 billion in annual revenues with a global workforce of more than 750,000 people in 85 countries. Quantum acquires Western Digital business line Quantum Corporation entered into an agreement with Western Digital Technologies, Inc., a subsidiary of Western Digital Corp., to acquire its ActiveScale object storage business. The acquisition demonstrates Quantum’s commitment to innovation and growth, extending the company’s leadership role in storing and managing video and unstructured data using a software-defined approach. AVA/Vaion/Jazz Networks Ava, a unified security company, announced the completion of the merger between Jazz Networks, renowned cyber security insider threat detection and response firm; and Vaion, an end-to-end video security solutions provider. Ava is now positioned to deliver unified cyber and physical security solutions to organisations worldwide.

Two of the most familiar names in the physical security market – Pelco and Panasonic – underwent ownership changes during 2019. Consolidation continued on multiple other fronts. Security service companies, video companies and access control companies were all among the entities involved in merger and acquisition (M&A) activity during the last 12 months. In short, the industry landscape continues to transform in response to a changing market. Here's a look at the Top 10 M&A stories in 2019: 1. Pelco acquired by private equity firm Transom Capital Pelco Inc. was acquired in May by Transom Capital Group, a private equity firm, from Schneider Electric. Since the acquisition, Transom Capital has been working with Pelco’s management and employees to define and direct the next chapter of the iconic company. Pelco maintains its headquarters in Fresno, Calif., and has a presence in Fort Collins, Colo., near Denver, and a sales office in the New York area, not to mention many global employees who work remotely. 2. Panasonic spins of security business Electronics giant Panasonic sold off 80% of its video surveillance business to a private equity firm but is retaining 20%, and the new company will continue to use the well-known Panasonic brand. The move is aimed at reinvigorating a business challenged by competition from Chinese companies and lower video prices. Polaris Capital Group Co. acquired 80% of the outstanding shares of the new security systems business. 3. Qognify acquires OnSSI and SeeTec 2019 began with the acquisition of IP video management software (VMS) company On-Net Surveillance Systems (OnSSI), including SeeTec in Europe. Backed by the global investment firm Battery Ventures, Qognify completed the acquisition in the final days of 2018. With Qognify, OnSSI and SeeTec operating under one umbrella, the company provides VMS, video analytics, PSIM and critical incident management for mid-market and enterprise organizations. 4. Busy year for acquisitions at Allied Universal Security services company Allied Universal had an active year in acquisitions, beginning in April with the acquisition of integration company Securadyne Systems in Dallas. There was an additional acquisition announced in each of the next four months: Point 2 Point Global Security, Dallas, in May; security services company Cypress Private Security in June, services company Shetler Security Services in July , and Midstate Security in August. Allied Universal announced two more acquisitions in November – low-voltage integrator Advent Systems Inc. in Chicago and Vinson Guard Service in Louisiana. Also in November, Allied announced a transformational merger with SOS Security. In December, Allied Universal acquired APG Security, South Amboy, N.J. 5. Motorola continues video push with VaaS acquisition Following its acquisition of Avigilon in 2018, Motorola Solutions continued to build its presence in the security market in 2019 with the acquisition of VaaS International Holdings, Inc. (VaaS), a data and image analytics company. Motorola Solutions paid $445 million in a combination of cash and equity for the company, which includes fixed and mobile license plate reader cameras driven by machine learning and artificial intelligence. 6. ACRE acquires access control companies Open Options and RS2 Open Options is an open architecture access control company headquartered in Addison, Texas; and RS2 is an open systems access control provider in Munster, Ind. ACRE, global provider of security systems, wrapped up acquisition of both firms in 2019, after announcing the Open Options deal in the waning days of 2018 and following it up with the RS2 announcement in the spring. ACRE’s portfolio now consists of Vanderbilt, Open Options, RS2 and ComNet. 7. Assa Abloy expands capabilities with LifeSafety Power Lock and access control giant ASSA ABLOY acquired LifeSafety Power in September, providing a complement to the access control portfolio. The plan is to incorporate LifeSafety Power’s knowledge of power supply and consumption throughout the ASSA ABLOY access control line. LifeSafety Power was established in 2009 and has some 65 employees. The main office is located in Libertyville, Illinois. 8. Distributor Anixter going private and selling to CD&R Anixter International Inc., a distributor of network and security solutions, electrical and electronic solutions and utility power solutions, entered into a definitive agreement with an affiliate of Clayton, Dubilier & Rice (CD&R) to be acquired in an all cash transaction valued at approximately $3.8 billion. The transaction will result in Anixter becoming a private company and is expected to close by the end of the first quarter of 2020. Under the terms of the merger agreement, CD&R-managed funds will acquire all the outstanding shares of Anixter common stock for $81.00 per share in cash. (It has been reported that a new bidder has also emerged, although Anixter is resisting – stay tuned.) 9. Alarm.com expands commercial offering with OpenEye acquisition Alarm.com has announced a majority-stake acquisition of OpenEye, a provider of cloud-managed video surveillance solutions for the commercial market. OpenEye is optimised for enterprise-level commercial customers requiring expansive video recording capabilities, in addition to remote viewing, administration and diagnostic reporting. Combined with the Alarm.com for Business offering, service providers partnered with Alarm.com now have solutions to accommodate commercial accounts of any size. 10. ADT makes multiple acquisitions, sells Canadian operation Another North American security giant, ADT Inc., also had a busy year in mergers and acquisitions. In February, ADT acquired LifeShield, a pioneer in advanced wireless home security systems. In June ADT continued expanding capabilities and geographic reach via Red Hawk Fire & Security, ADT Commercial with the asset purchase agreement of Security Corporation, a commercial security integrator headquartered in Detroit, Mich. In November, ADT Commercial purchased Critical Systems, which specialises in enterprise-class fire alarm, fire suppression, life safety and integrated building security solutions for high-rise properties, healthcare campuses and data, manufacturing and distribution facilities in Atlanta.  In October, ADT announced an agreement to sell its Canadian operations to TELUS Corp.

In today’s technology-driven markets, a platform is a business model that connects producers and consumers in an interactive ecosystem. Some examples of platforms are Uber and Airbnb, which have disrupted and transformed traditional markets. Isn’t it time to deploy the platform model in the physical security industry? That’s the goal of the Open Security & Safety Alliance (OSSA), a non-profit organisation. Interactions and exchange The book ‘Platform Revolution’ defines a platform as ‘a business based on enabling value-creating interactions between external producers and consumers.’ The description continues: ‘The platform provides an open, participatory infrastructure for these interactions and sets governance conditions for them. The platform’s overarching purpose is to consummate matches among users and facilitate the exchange of goods, services, or social currency, thereby enabling value creation for all participants.’ Platform for security and safety solutions OSSA’s plan is to build a common standardised platform for security and safety solutions. Founding members are Bosch Building Technologies, Hanwha Techwin, Milestone Systems, Pelco and VIVOTEK. Anyone can join the alliance, which is growing rapidly and gaining traction as the Internet of Things (IoT) expands. OSSA’s plan is to build a common standardised platform for security and safety solutions OSSA members could be found throughout the recent ISC West show in Las Vegas, and a social event after hours at the show brought them together and set the tone for development to come. A Technology Stack “We want to create an ecosystem, define a common market approach and open new market opportunities,” says Johan Jubbega, OSSA President. “We want to go from a product business to a platform business. It’s better for us and better for the end-users.” OSSA seeks to develop a specification for a common Technology Stack to cater to innovation and reduce fragmentation within the security and safety market, according to OSSA. Its mission is complementary to organisations like ONVIF. Video information and low friction The video surveillance industry creates vast amounts of information in the form of video, but typically less than 1 percent of that data is used by today’s video surveillance systems – think about that one or two frames of video among thousands that might be used to solve a crime, for example. The rest of the data remains unused, and yet the potential value of the data is huge. OSSA seeks to create a platform to leverage the value of the data. “If we don’t unlock that value in our industry, someone will do it for us,” says Jubbega. OSSA is developing a vendor-agnostic operating system that simplifies low-level device integration and standardises elements such as cybersecurity and security update patches Among the important elements in developing the platform are to create a level of trust among all the stakeholders involved, and to lower the ‘friction’ involved in participating in the platform. “We want to make it easy and fun to do business with anyone who joins the platform,” says Jubbega. “By taking away the friction, we will create scalability.” System-on-chip Development of customisable system-on-chip (SoC) components in today’s video cameras provide the capacity to host a variety of ‘apps’ to expand system functionality and leverage the value of data. OSSA is developing a vendor-agnostic operating system that simplifies low-level device integration and standardises elements such as cybersecurity and security update patches. Building on top of that operating system, vendors can create new levels of differentiation. “Our purpose is to start from a common business model to spur innovation and add value for users,” according to OSSA. Cybersecurity and data protection SAST is creating the operating system and setting up the IoT infrastructure to make apps available Simply speaking, app developers can use the standard operating system to build new functionalities that can easily be ‘loaded’ on cameras and sold in an ‘app store’ scenario. Security and Safety Things (SAST), a Bosch startup and member of OSSA, is creating the operating system and setting up the IoT infrastructure to make the apps available. Development of these elements is happening concurrently with the evolution of OSSA. “We offer you an opportunity to come with us on this journey,” Jubbega told attendees at the ISC West social event. “We want to have a common approach to tackling cybersecurity and data protection – to raise the bar in the industry. You can still differentiate, but from a higher base.” OSSA members who exhibited at ISC West included Anixter Inc., Bosch Building Technologies, Hanwha Techwin, Milestone Systems, NetApp Inc., Pelco, SAST, Socionext Inc., United Technologies and VIVOTEK Inc.