Feenics - Experts & Thought Leaders

Invixium, a global pioneer in biometric access control and workforce management solutions, announces its participation at ISC West 2024. At the show, Invixium will exhibit its full line of NDAA-compliant, made-in-Canada, modern, and rugged biometric solutions that are specifically designed to thrive in the most unclean, hazardous, extreme, and harsh working conditions prevalent in the industrial and critical infrastructure sectors. Addressing security challenges As an integrated biometric solutions provider, Invixium has earned a global reputation for its adeptness in swiftly addressing real-world security and productivity challenges faced by its customers distinguishing itself from other players in the physical access control industry who often engage in product features and data sheet wars. “Approximately, 75% of the working population work in harsh and non-clean industries," said Shiraz Kapadia, CEO & President at Invixium. Biometric products and software Shiraz Kapadia continues, "Our biometric products and software are purposely engineered to operate in such environments where it’s needed the most."  “With 35,000 devices deployed across the toughest sites with large workforces, we’re safeguarding refineries, airports, manufacturing plants, data centres, construction sites, and critical infrastructure,” added Kapadia, enforcing the breadth of Invixium’s impact. IXM WEB 3.0 IXM WEB 3.0 adds IXM VISITOR streamlining guest security with fast, paperless registration options Attendees at the show can experience Invixium’s new all-in-one software platform, IXM WEB 3.0. With advanced layered encryption at its core for data protection, it offers a revamped UI/UX, powerful analytics, and enterprise-grade visitor management. In addition to IXM TIME – A comprehensive workforce management module, IXM LINK – Integration to the industry’s best access control software, IXM WEB 3.0 adds IXM VISITOR as part of this platform, streamlining guest security with fast, paperless registration options and a customisable dashboard. TITAN Complementing its top-tier software would be TITAN, the most rugged face recognition access control solution equipped with multi-factor authentication purpose-built for harsh industries, TFACE, a highly versatile and slim dual biometric device for enterprises, and others. Invixium’s software makes it easier for system integrators to implement biometric solutions quickly and accurately; significantly speeding up deployment and setup time. The company has established a long list of integration partners including LenelS2, Genetec, Honeywell, ACRE Security (DNA Fusion, Feenics, and AccessIt!), Galaxy Control Systems, Gallagher, Paxton, Nedap, Siemens, Schneider Electric, and more. Custom-made approach Invixium advocates that a one-size-fits-all approach does not work when it comes to security solutions. Recognising the inherent diversity across industries, Invixium champions a non-traditional, unique, custom-made approach, understanding that the security needs of a convenience store diverge greatly from those of an oil and gas facility. Invixium’s solutions attend to the distinct requirements of critical infrastructure sectors, including oil and gas, data centres, correctional facilities, research labs, pharmaceuticals, airports, higher education, and manufacturing. Within these verticals, safety and security are indisputably a non-negotiable priority. Attendees will be able to engage in live demos and discuss their project requirements with Invixium’s team of biometric experts at booth #23103.

Acre Security, a global provider of security solutions, is proud to announce its participation in Intersec 2024, taking place on 16 – 18 January 2024, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE). Over the past seven months, Acre Security has unified its operations into a single, cohesive global business. This transformation underscores its commitment to providing streamlined and efficient experiences for clients worldwide. Unified network of solutions Acre Security understands that in the interconnected world, security threats know no borders. That is why it has made it a mission to create a unified network of security solutions that can be seamlessly implemented across different countries and industries. Solution portfolio A single portfolio is designed to secure the two most valuable assets: employees and facilities At Intersec 2024, Acre Security will showcase its powerful solution portfolio that includes access control, visitor management, intrusion detection, transmission, connectivity, and cybersecurity solutions. A single portfolio is designed to secure the two most valuable assets: employees and facilities. Advanced security features Acre will be offering demonstrations for smooth migration and upgrade strategies for existing acre access solutions to cloud-based solutions. Join them for an exclusive sneak peek of cutting-edge AP03 access controllers and downstream devices, designed to provide advanced security features and improved control.  Acre is also excited to exhibit collaborations with transmission and seismic detectors for joint technology enclosures. Feenics Cloud-Based Access Control Solution Acre solutions can be delivered in three simple ways via the cloud, through an on-premise installation, or through a blended approach to meet unique needs. During the show, Acre will be showcasing Feenics Cloud-Based Access Control Solution, which is hosted in the UAE, providing localised support and service. “We are excited to be participating in Intersec 2024 and showcasing our unified global security solutions," Alexander Holmström, Global Sales Director, Acre Security, adding "We are confident that our solutions will provide our clients with the best possible security experience.”

Wavestore, a pioneer in video management software and analytics for the physical security industry, announces an exciting new chapter in the company's journey, welcoming Sam Shalaby as its new Owner. A long-standing industry entrepreneur with a proven track record of scaling innovative companies, Shalaby’s leadership will accelerate Wavestore's expansion into new markets and enable the company to deliver major edge, customer-focused solutions to an even larger audience.  Wavestore solution Wavestore has successfully combined the agility and customer-centric approach of a start-up" Under the leadership of Managing Director - Mark Claxton, Wavestore has successfully combined the agility and customer-centric approach of a start-up with the resilience of an established operation. The Wavestore solution has been instrumental in securing prestigious customer wins across the globe, from the U.S. to the Middle East, providing end-users with exceptional value while empowering integrators and consultants to expand regional sales.  Video analytics, actionable data "We’re focused and committed to investing heavily in product development,” said Mark Claxton, Managing Director of Wavestore, adding “Our suite of video analytics tools, integrations, and accessible, actionable data is truly transforming how people see their world."  Extensive Work experience Shalaby's previous experience, notably as founder and CEO of Feenics and owner of Future Security Controls, demonstrates his ability to grow businesses by leveraging cloud-based technologies and investing in talented and capable personnel while focusing on customer needs. His knowledge and expertise will catalyse to further extend the reach of Wavestore’s video management solutions.  Comments "I'm thrilled to join forces with the talented team at Wavestore,” said Shalaby, CEO of Wavestore, adding “Mark and I share a strong commitment to customer-centric innovation and growth. I believe my guidance will enable us to unlock Wavestore's full potential in the market." Shalaby was recently inducted into the SP&T News Hall of Fame for his ongoing contributions to the industry as a mentor and visionary.  Expansion, global achievements The current team at Wavestore will be complemented with additional talent in North America The current team at Wavestore will be complemented with additional talent in North America. With an engaged, motivated, and enthusiastic team, Wavestore is well-positioned to establish new partnerships and reaffirm existing ones to explore potential business prospects. Planned expansion to new locations in Canada, the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East will position Wavestore to boost its growth in untapped markets and capitalise on its global achievements amassed, while serving 21 years in the industry.  New and existing partnerships Wavestore is actively seeking new partners across all sectors that will benefit from technology that enables change-makers in operations to gain insights, make decisions, and take actions that protect people and assets, prevent losses, and innovate customer and employee experience. Existing partners are invited to reconnect and explore exciting new business opportunities together. 

The security landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, as evidenced by the innovations showcased at the ISC West Expo 2026. From dismantling of silos between physical and digital security to the ongoing transition to cloud and hybrid platforms, much of the discussion on the show floor was familiar, if somehow more urgent than ever. Clearly the industry is moving toward unified, cloud-native, and highly automated ecosystems. In a series of deep-dive meetings and demonstrations at the recent show, I got a first-hand glimpse of the future of the physical security marketplace. Spoiler alert: The future is now! HID Global: Tearing down the silos HID Global is addressing the long-requested convergence of physical and digital security. Recognising that the industry has historically operated in silos, HID is now leading with a combined implementation team to leverage the power of both sides. HID is supporting the transition by combining its logical and physical security teams to help end users design secure, end-to-end journeys for their employees. By leveraging its massive existing footprint in physical access, HID is uniquely positioned to help organisations upgrade their cybersecurity posture without a total "rip and replace" of their hardware. HID is seeing a surge in demand for converged credentials that unite building access with digital identity. On the digital front, HID has implemented FIDO (Fast Identity Online) and passkeys to replace traditional passwords with more secure, biometric-backed authentication methods. Acre Security: Bridging the gap to the cloud Acre Security previewed a cloud-native video solution, reinforcing its cloud-first security strategyAcre Security is currently consolidating brands, bringing established names like Feenics and AccessIt under a single corporate umbrella. A primary theme for the company at ISC West is the migration of legacy systems to modern infrastructure. To facilitate the transition, they are launching "The Bridge," a technology designed to help on-premise customers transition to the cloud at a pace that suits their operational needs. The company is also expanding its portfolio into video. Attendees at the show received a preview of a new cloud-native video solution slated for release later this year, signaling Acre’s commitment to a holistic, cloud-first security suite. Acoem: Real-time acoustic threat detection With a 35-year foundation in vibration and acoustics—including military sniper detection—Acoem is providing gunshot detection through edge processing. Unlike systems that rely on the cloud and may suffer from latency, Acoem’s technology processes data at the sensor level for instant alerts. Their sensors are engineered for massive outdoor spaces, covering a 500-foot radius (roughly 11 football fields) and can detect high-powered rifle shots from up to half a mile away. The system provides critical intelligence by distinguishing between muzzle blasts and "mach noise" from bullet travel, delivering an audio file to the end-user that maps the location and direction of the threat. They use AI to filter out environmental false positives, such as skateboards hitting metal rails. Alarm.com: The all-in-one dealer ecosystem Beyond hardware, Alarm.com is leveraging AI to streamline the sales process Alarm.com is doubling down on "giving tools to dealers to help them be successful," with a focus on unified commercial solutions. A highlight at ISC West is their new fire communicator, which integrates fire monitoring into their single app, completing what they call the "fourth leg of the stool." The product allows fire systems to benefit from the same real-time customer engagement and push notifications that have long been available for intrusion and video. The key products, such as commercial-grade hardware, are now available for immediate purchase. Beyond hardware, Alarm.com is leveraging AI to streamline the sales process. Their new AI Proposal Builder uses customer meeting notes to automatically generate customised, value-driven sales proposals for dealers. Allegion: A global shift in credentialing Following the acquisition of ELATEC, Allegion is adopting a more global market approach and expanding its OEM business. The company is involved in the development of Aliro, the newly unveiled mobile credentialing standard. Allegion’s strategy is built on versatility: While Aliro serves the burgeoning mobile market, they also offer PKOC for plastic cards, allowing them to provide solutions regardless of the user's preferred credential type. The ELATEC acquisition has effectively filled previous gaps in their use-case portfolio, positioning them as a comprehensive provider for both physical and digital access needs. AtlasIED: Engineering for life safety Transitioning from audio to a fully automated threat detection company, AtlasIED showcased its new IPX line at ISC West. This modular platform uses a single PoE++ port to power various "plug-and-play" modules, allowing for easy system upgrades. Their gun detection technology achieves a 99% confidence rating by "stacking" AI models; it cross-references audio data with infrared signatures to detect muzzle flashes and air quality sensors for particulates. With systems already running in 80% of U.S. international airports, the company maintains 24/7 domestic engineering support to manage these "life-safety adjacent" environments. Axis Communications: Unifying connectivity Axis Communications is advancing network video with 4G/5G surveillance, reducing cabling needs Axis Communications continues to lead in network video, with a new focus on offering surveillance through 4G and 5G networks to eliminate the need for extensive cabling in long-range applications. Axis also introduced several specialised hardware pieces, including the P1486-LE global shutter camera for high-speed traffic monitoring and the Q2802-TE, which integrates thermal and visual monitoring into a single unit.  To assist technicians, they launched a new installer app that uses Bluetooth for easier camera pairing and management directly from a mobile device. Axon: De-escalation through enterprise wearables Focusing on frontline safety, Axon is expanding from law enforcement into the enterprise sector with its retail and healthcare-focused body camera. Weighing only 0.25 lb, these cameras are designed to be less intimidating, using colorful designs and acting as a primary de-escalator for aggressive behavior. A clear front display signals when recording is active, striking a balance between safety and a non-intimidating appearance. These devices feature live-streaming and panic alarms that connect workers to a Global Security Operations Center (GSOC). To ensure the footage is legally viable, Axon maintains a rigorous audit trail that authenticates every action recorded. Genetec: The value of the unified platform Genetec is advocating for unified platforms that reduce the time between incident detection and resolution. They argue that AI is becoming a commodity and that the true value lies in unified platforms that reduce the time from incident to resolution. Their approach emphasises the "outcomes" customers need, such as allowing security teams to coalesce around an investigation quickly. Genetec remains a strong supporter of open systems for enterprise customers, ensuring they have the choice to integrate diverse technologies rather than being locked into a manufacturer’s “walled garden.” This flexibility is critical for high-end security environments that require tailored, responsive systems. Johnson Controls: Large-scale enterprise solutions Johnson Controls has made a significant push into the enterprise video market with C-Cure IQ, a standalone VMS designed for major hubs like airports and large campuses. Through a partnership with Scylla, they have integrated 11 advanced analytics—including facial recognition and weapons detection—directly into their cameras. They also showcased new multi-sensor panoramic cameras capable of "stitching" multiple images into a single 360-degree view. While innovating in video, Johnson Controls also confirmed modern upgrades to their intrusion line, including their legacy DSC Neo line. The new DSC PowerSeries Neo 5, a high-end residential and commercial platform, features an all-new user interface and built-in PowerG+. They have also begun shipping the IQ5 family lineup, which is powered by a Qualcomm DragonWing processor.  ONVIF: Standardising the future of AI and cloud ONVIF continues to lead the charge in establishing common languages for the security industry. A major focus is their new "Cloud Profile," which enables cameras to connect directly to the cloud through a standardised protocol. They are also expanding into audio standards to ensure IP-based speakers can seamlessly connect to Video Management Systems (VMS). To combat the rise of sophisticated digital manipulation, ONVIF is developing "video signing" standards. ONVIF is actively seeking more diverse enterprise participation to help shape these emerging AI standardsThis feature protects the integrity of video for evidentiary purposes by embedding a digital signature and timestamp directly into the footage at the camera level. Additionally, the organisation has formed an AI Working Group to develop common communication methods for "AI agents" within physical security systems. ONVIF is actively seeking more diverse enterprise participation to help shape these emerging AI standards. Roberto Licari is the new ONVIF Ambassador, seeking to attract new companies (even outside the security sector) to ONVIF as they look to expand their offerings. SwiftConnect: Bridging digital and physical identity SwiftConnect is redefining access control by shifting the focus from physical cards to digital identity. As a cloud-based "connected access network," the platform bridges the gap between IT identity providers (like Okta or Azure AD) and legacy physical access control systems. At the show's Security Experience Center demonstrations, SwiftConnect showcased its ability to integrate mobile credentials within Apple and Google Wallets across multiple technology platforms. By aligning physical security with Zero Trust principles, they ensure that access is governed by the same rigorous standards as digital networks. Their software-centric approach allows for a more seamless employee experience while simplifying the management of complex, multi-site building security. This emphasises a future where the mobile device becomes the primary tool for navigating the physical workspace. Wasabi Technologies: Redefining cloud storage economics With cloud technology becoming a baseline requirement at every booth, Wasabi Technologies highlighted its "hot cloud storage" as a cost-effective alternative to major hyperscalers. Their model claims to be 80% less expensive than competitors, notably removing hidden fees. Wasabi is increasingly bundled at the "back end" of security solutions through partnerships with integrators and end users. A key feature for law enforcement and high-security sectors is their "Object Lock" capability, which ensures that video evidence remains untampered with and immutable during defined retention periods. By providing high-performance storage without the unpredictable costs typically associated with the cloud, Wasabi is positioning itself as the foundational layer for data-heavy video surveillance applications that require long-term, secure retention. Wasabi is positioning itself as the foundational layer for data-heavy video surveillance applications ZKTeco USA: Versatile and integrated access ZKTeco USA showcased a range of integrated solutions, including turnstiles, visitor management, and access control. Their Atlas access control series offers versatility, supporting everything from traditional readers and keypads to QR codes and fingerprint scanning, with the flexibility to operate on-premise or in the cloud. For tight environments, they introduced the Mars 100 turnstile, which features a compact 2x3-foot footprint. They also highlighted the Omni series, an all-in-one standalone reader-controller that manages access, intercom, and visitor functions in a single device. Innovation in portability was evident in their new walk-through metal detectors, which consist of two poles with an 8-hour battery life—ideal for schools and temporary events. While they offer their own Armatura readers, ZKTeco emphasised that their solutions can integrate with other industry leaders to fit diverse customer needs.

Well attended and generating levels of excitement not seen since before the pandemic, ISC West may provide just the shot of adrenaline we need to drive industry success through the uncertain economic times ahead. Buzzwords like artificial intelligence (AI) and the cloud were still prevalent at the conference and exhibition in Las Vegas, but the hype of yesteryear seemed more subdued. Rather than breakthroughs to be celebrated, AI and cloud were discussed more as ways systems can realise even greater potential. Rampant cybersecurity attacks Rather than hype, discussions seemed much more practical and down-to-earth, encompassing shifting customer needs and how to address pain points. There was more discussion of the shift of security from a cost center to a profit center, where industry technologies can contribute to an enterprise’s bottom line. More companies seemed to be vigorously addressing the challenges of cybersecurity More companies seemed to be vigorously addressing the challenges of cybersecurity, although perpetually an obstacle. The industry seems more devoted than ever to protecting physical security systems in an age of rampant cybersecurity attacks. But more than in years past, it was the ISC West event itself that generated the most buzz. The crowded aisles of the exhibition seemed both reminiscent of the pre-covid past and prescient of the industry’s even brighter future. From booth to booth and attendee to attendee, the enthusiasm was both conspicuous and contagious. Everybody was thinking: ‘Wow! What a show!’ Pushing technology to the edge “The practice of physical security is about more than understanding threats, and end users are thinking now about the bigger picture of security and how networks work in the broader context of the business,” said Andrew Elvish, Vice President, Marketing at Genetec. Problems of latency and miscommunication are elements pushing technology to the network edge, he says. For example, in an access control scenario, decision-making should be as close to the door as possible to avoid network congestion, delays, or failure. Andrew Elvish, Vice President, Marketing at Genetec, displays Axis network door controller ‘powered by Genetec’ Elements pushing technology Reflecting the philosophy is a new collaboration introduced at the show called ‘Axis Powered by Genetec,’ an enterprise-level access control offering that combines Genetec Synergis software with A1210 and A1610 network door controllers by Axis Communications. Elvish says lines are blurring when it comes to edge versus cloud technologies. Rather than choosing ‘either-or,’ a blending of approaches is optimum, always ensuring that “Decision-making is close to the point of actuation,” he says. On-premise versus cloud systems Elvish also points to changing assumptions about the industry roles of on-premise versus cloud systems Elvish also points to changing assumptions about the industry roles of on-premise versus cloud systems. Historically, the assumption was that on-premise systems are most appropriate for enterprise customers, while the cloud is the best approach for small- to medium businesses (SMBs). Depending on the end customer’s needs, a system can be either or both at the same time.  Rather than debate cloud versus edge, customers should consider the outcomes they seek, and how technologies can be merged to provide those outcomes. “They should consider a solution where they do both, with the gradation of controls provided at their fingertips,” says Elvish. Combining security into one platform Unifying security and related functions on a single platform was a widely evident trend at ISC West. An example is Verkada which now offers a unified platform that includes video, access control, and intrusion detection, as well as other functions such as air quality sensors, visitor management, and a door intercom. David Tsang, Product Director of Verkada, predicts demand to combine technologies into a single platform will grow in the industry. Furthermore, as data is collected in the single system, enterprises will find new ways to ‘connect the dots’ to provide better business intelligence. Air quality sensors Verkada’s cloud-based system enables fast deployment of the single platform “Our approach to building products is based around the idea that every company has different needs, and they want technologies to integrate seamlessly and operate off the same platform,” says Tsang. In addition to seamless integration, each product must also be able to stand on its own. Tsang manages Verkada’s various product categories, including access control, air quality sensors, intercoms, etc. Verkada’s cloud-based system enables fast deployment of the single platform, and the company works with dealers to ensure delivery of a 'better partner experience.' What happens after a binge of acquisitions?  Acre Security unveiled a new corporate ‘identity’ and a big booth highlighting the technology brands the company has acquired over the last several years. Brands such as Feenics, ACTMobile, Comnet, Razberi, and others reflect Acre’s acquisition of these companies but are now being promoted as technology choices under the ‘one Acre’ approach.  Don Joos, CEO of Acre Security, looked ahead to the future of the company at ISC West Visitor management product categories Change is in the air, and the booth’s unified visual design signifies the new direction for the company, says Don Joos, Acre’s CEO. Various technologies can be delivered via the cloud, through an on-premise installation, or using a hybrid approach Acre is highlighting ACTMobile’s mustering capability, useful in the K-12 market In tying technologies together, the ACTMobile product will play a key role in two major verticals -- command-and-control and K-12 schools. Acre is highlighting ACTMobile’s mustering capability, useful in the K-12 market, which was adapted from a technology used in the cruise industry. The Acre approach is to embrace the variety of opportunities available in the access control, intrusion, and visitor management product categories within a broad definition of ‘security’ that embraces both core capabilities and ‘adjacencies,’ says Joos. Acre seeks to enable customers to protect people, facilities, and critical assets. They manage customers’ security data and provide the insights they need. Ensuring a cohesive security system A challenge in the industry is combining various single products into a cohesive whole. “There are many products that do one thing well, but it’s harder to build a cohesive security platform,” says Ryan Schonfeld, Founder and CEO of Hivewatch. Hivewatch is a software platform that performs the functions previously associated with a ‘PSIM,’ which is a physical security information management system. The term PSIM has earned a questionable reputation in the industry, plagued by added costs and the perpetual challenges of integrating with ever-changing software platforms. Information management system Hivewatch seeks to bypass other software systems and to integrate as closely as possible with devices Hivewatch seeks to bypass other software systems and to integrate as closely as possible with devices on the edge, thus avoiding the impact of software system changes. They integrate with data in a ‘different way’ that eliminates the need to conform to other software systems.  In today’s climate, the term ‘security’ could be seen as limiting when it comes to the various functions our industry’s systems can perform in the broader enterprise, says Schonfeld. Traditional enterprise reporting structures that have physical security reporting to the facilities or real estate department are limiting the broader role security can play in the enterprise. Positioning physical security Changing norms are positioning physical security to report to the CIO or CISO, thus reflecting physical security’s role in collecting and analysing data. Higher visibility within the enterprise can help security expand its influence and impact. “Security is too limiting, and it can keep us from getting a seat at the table,” says Schonfeld. “We need to shift from being a cost center to generating revenue and/or driving business — and data is the key. Rather than leading by fear, we need to show the value security can drive.”

Consolidation is a dominant trend in the security marketplace. Large companies typically swallow up smaller companies as a means of expanding both their technology portfolios and their geographic reach. Sometimes a big fish is swallowed up by an even bigger fish.   Despite the pandemic and resulting economic challenges, the security market has continued to be a desirable environment for both big players and startups, which then provide abundant acquisition targets for the larger companies. Acquisitions of Motorola Motorola Solutions has been among the most acquisitive of the larger players, recently adding several smaller companies to their growing portfolio. Just this year, Motorola has acquired Ava Security, a video security and analytics company; Calipsa, another analytics company; and Videotec, an Italian provider of ruggedized video solutions for critical infrastructure applications. Video solutions that help to enhance safety and streamline operations while supporting customers In one announcement, Motorola chairman and CEO Greg Brown stated the goal of acquisitions is “to support our customers’ evolving security needs by expanding our portfolio of intelligent video solutions that help to enhance safety and streamline operations.” Previously, Motorola Solutions acquired Envysion, a video analytics company for the retail market. On the access control side, Motorola acquired Openpath Security, a cloud-based, mobile access control provider, in 2021. Motorola entered the video surveillance business back in 2018 with the acquisition of Avigilon for around $1 billion. Also now a part of Motorola are IndigoVision and Pelco, among others. ACRE's mergers and acquisition Another company active in the mergers and acquisition market has been ACRE (Access Control Related Enterprises). The company began with a spinoff from Ingersoll Rand in 2012 to become Vanderbilt Industries. As ACRE, the parent company has been active both in acquisitions and divestitures over the next decade. Vanderbilt grew with the acquisition of Siemens’ Security Products in 2015. ACRE owned Mercury Security, a manufacturer of OEM hardware used by access control companies, from 2013 until it was sold to HID Global in 2017. The acquisition of Razberi enhances the ComNet portfolio while providing complementary technologies ACRE’s more recent access control acquisitions are RS2 Technologies (in 2019), Open Options (2018), Feenics (2021), and Matrix Systems (2021). They acquired ComNet, a manufacturer of video and data transmission equipment, in 2016. The acquisition of Razberi (in 2020) enhances the ComNet portfolio and provides complementary technologies to the access control brands. Acquisition of ACRE ACRE itself was acquired by European investment firm Triton in 2021, and Joseph Grillo, the company’s founder and CEO, announced his retirement in 2022. His knowledge of the security and access control markets helped to drive the company’s growth, including 11 successful acquisitions in all. Securitas acquiring Stanley Security  The acquisition of Stanley Security is transformational for both Securitas and the security industry Stanley Security has also made headlines. In December 2021, Securitas signed an agreement to acquire the Electronic Security Business from Stanley Black & Decker for $3.2 billion in cash. Securitas President and CEO Magnus Ahlqvist says, “the acquisition of Stanley Security is transformational for both Securitas and the security industry.” Allegion plc, global security products and solutions provider, later signed an agreement to acquire Stanley Access Technologies and assets related to the automatic entrance solutions business from Stanley Black & Decker, Inc. for $900 million. Acquisition by HID Global, ADT Inc. & Allied Universal HID Global has acquired Vizinex RFID, thus increasing its presence and relevance in key vertical markets, including healthcare/medical, manufacturing, oil and gas, data centres, etc. and adding a key technology to HID Global’s RFID tag portfolio. ADT Inc. recently expanded its geographic reach with the acquisition of Key-Rite Security, a locally owned and operated security provider specializing in access control, surveillance, intrusion, and intercom systems in Colorado and for customers across the United States. Allied Universal continues its strategic growth with the acquisition of Attenti Group, an electronic monitoring company Allied Universal has acquired Star Protection Agency, the largest Hawaiian-owned and veteran-owned security company in the state. Although Star is primarily a guard patrol service, with workers at 125 sites throughout the state, it provides a range of security technology and consulting services. Internationally, Allied Universal continues its strategic growth with the acquisition of Attenti Group, an electronic monitoring company. Allied Universal will integrate Attenti Group with G4S Monitoring Technologies, to create Allied Universal Electronic Monitoring Services. SALTO Systems making acquisition news Also internationally, SALTO Systems has made acquisition news by investing in Bluefield Smart Access, thus strengthening their portfolio of access control solutions. SALTO Systems is a manufacturer of electronic access control and operating system solutions, designed to provide a seamless, keyless and mobile experience for modern buildings. Also joining the SALTO Group is Cognitec Systems, a face recognition company. The goal is to strengthen their research, development and market reach while working with SALTO on new technologies for expanding biometric markets. SALTO strategically selected Cognitec Systems to meet market requests for adding face recognition and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to the company’s electronic access control and ticketing solutions. Acquisitions by MOBOTIX and Resideo Technologies  Resideo Technologies, Inc. entered into an agreement to acquire First Alert, Inc., a provider of home safety products Further, on the international scene, MOBOTIX has reached an agreement to acquire Vaxtor Group, Tres Cantos, Spain, an artificial intelligence (AI) based video analytics provider, specializing in Optical Character Recognition (OCR) and Deep Learning technologies. On the residential system's front, Resideo Technologies, Inc. entered into an agreement to acquire First Alert, Inc., a provider of home safety products, from Newell Brands Inc. for $593 million in an all-cash transaction. Established in 1969 and based in Aurora, Illinois, First Alert offers a strong omnichannel presence serving end-users directly through retail and e-commerce channels and professional contractors through relationships with distributors and home builders.