SFI has been providing security guard services since 1949 and employs over 3,500 security professionals who are supported by 31 offices throughout the southeastern U.S.

“SFI and SFIE have an unblemished reputation and are one of the strongest regional security providers in the U.S. I am extremely excited to have Larry and Heather O’Brien and all of the Security Forces team members as part of Universal Protection Service,” said Steve Jones, Co-CEO and Chief Operating Officer of Universal Services of America. Jones went on further to state that “this acquisition is truly transformational and grants us the ability to provide true coast to coast service to our clients.”

“Our entire organisation is excited to be part of Universal Protection Service. The combined resources of Universal and SFI/SFIE create an unmatched customer service delivery capability and allows both organisations to continue working directly with clients in defined geographic areas,” said Larry O’Brien, Chairman and CEO of SFI. “By coming together, we have created the best possible platform for further developing our innovative processes.”

The acquisitions of SFI and SFIE will expand Universal’s security force to Alabama, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia.

“Universal Protection Service has known SFI and SFIE for many years; we have worked together in a strategic partnership by sharing leads and managing nationwide client portfolios. We feel their management and impeccable service matches the overall culture and service delivery at Universal,” said Brian Cescolini, Chairman and Co-CEO of Universal Services of America. “This partnership makes Universal the strongest privately owned security company in the U.S. As we expand our operations into the Southeast, our customers can expect the same hands on management support and superior customer service with a wider scope of delivery and service options.”

Universal Protection Service is now the 6th largest security company in the U.S. and the 4th largest U.S. owned security organisation. As they move ahead with their recent expansion, Universal looks forward to continuing to provide their clients with the best security solutions, personalised customer service and unmatched value available.