Centurion Fire & Security joins Ranger Fire & Security in Yorkshire acquisition

by Featured NewsMergers & AcquisitionsSafety

Ranger expands into Yorkshire with Centurion acquisition

Ranger Fire & Security has acquired Huddersfield-based Centurion Fire & Security, its first business acquisition in Yorkshire.

Ranger announced the deal on 9 February 2026 and said it was its 15th acquisition since launching in early 2024 and its second acquisition of 2026, following the purchase of Dorset-based Partnership Fire and Security in January.

Centurion Fire & Security is a fire and security maintenance led business established in 1974 and has provided services to commercial properties across the UK, including customers in education, nuclear power plants, hospitals, robotic manufacturing and major retail.

Services, accreditations and leadership plans

Centurion’s services include commercial CCTV installations, with 24/7 monitoring and AI operated systems.

The company also provides BAFE-registered fire alarms with early warning systems, intruder alarms and access control.

Ranger said Centurion has achieved Gold Standard by the National Security Inspectorate (NSI) in four disciplines for fire, CCTV, intruder and access systems installation and maintenance.

Mark Bridges, CEO of Ranger Fire and Security, said: “Centurion Fire & Security is an excellent addition to the Ranger team.

“This will be Ranger’s first acquisition in Yorkshire and build on previous acquisitions in the North West, enabling us to continue growing our group of industry experts to become the UK’s one-stop shop for all fire and security needs.”

Founder David Armstrong will continue to consult for the business as he transitions towards retirement, while General Manager Nathan Douglas-Smith has been promoted to Managing Director and will remain in post alongside the existing leadership team.

David Armstrong, retiring Director of Centurion Fire & Security said: “As I approach retirement, I wanted to find the right home for the business that I founded over half a century ago.

“We had lots of potential suitors, but Ranger was the standout option as a home that would look after the staff and customers, through their local hero centric strategy”.

“I am delighted that the team, ably led by Nathan Douglas-Smith, are now well positioned to take the next step forward for Centurion and continue to grow our customer base through the significant cross-sale opportunities that Ranger offers.

“I will continue to watch their progress.”

Nathan Douglas-Smith, Managing Director of Centurion Fire & Security said: “At Centurion we pride ourselves on offering a wide range of services across both fire and security to customers from all industries by joining Ranger, we will be able to keep expanding our customer base while still delivering the high- quality service we have become known for.

“With over 50 years of experience we are looking forward to sharing our own expertise and service offering with the other specialists across the Ranger business, ensuring that we all benefit from the collaboration and cross-selling opportunities that come from being part of Ranger.”

Centurion will also be able to access business support from Ranger’s leadership team and collaborate with Ranger’s network in the North of England, including IPH Fire Solutions, Syncro Group and McGoff & Vickers Fire and Security Systems.

The company said it is backed by Hyperion Equity Partners and is seeking to become a one-stop provider for fire and security services across the UK and Ireland.

Ranger funding deal with Apera targets UK and Ireland acquisitions

by Featured NewsMergers & Acquisitions

Ranger funding package and acquisition plans

Ranger Fire and Security has announced a £150 million funding package from Apera to support growth and acquisitions in the UK and Ireland.

The funding has been secured from funds managed by Apera Asset Management.

The facilities are intended to accelerate expansion through organic growth and acquisitions in the fire and security sector.

The strategy focuses on acquiring regulatory compliance driven and preventative maintenance-focused businesses.

The approach centres on integrating acquired companies into a single platform to support shared resources, expertise and cross-selling.

2025 acquisitions and 2026 pipeline

The partnership builds on six acquisitions completed across the UK and Ireland during 2025, which increased the total number of businesses in the Group to 14.

An acquisition announced earlier this month expanded the footprint in the South West of England.

Further acquisitions are planned for 2026, supported by an active pipeline.

Mark Bridges, CEO, Ranger Fire and Security, said: “Our new partnership with Apera marks a major milestone for Ranger, providing us with the firepower to take our growth ambitions to the next level.

“We’ve built strong momentum over the past two years, welcoming 14 high-quality businesses into the Group.

“Our vision is to bring together the very best regional specialists into a single national platform that benefits customers, employees and business owners alike.

“Apera’s support will enable us to continue scaling at pace in the year ahead, while staying true to our focus on quality, service excellence and meaningful partnerships.”

Paul Mahon, Partner, Hyperion Equity Partners, said: “Ranger has continued to grow at pace since its launch in 2024 – expanding from a handful of high-performing fire and security businesses to a Group that now has extensive coverage across the UK and a strong footprint in Ireland.

“Securing this funding capacity from Apera is a clear endorsement of Ranger’s success to date and the opportunities that lie ahead.

“Our clear strategy, focused sharply on collaboration, integrated operational excellence and customer service, has put Ranger in an incredibly strong position to deliver further sustained organic and acquisitive growth and value in 2026.”

Chris Roper, Partner at Apera, said: “Ranger is a leading maintenance-focused fire and security business that has created a highly innovative, well integrated platform.

“It has enabled regional businesses in the Group to collaborate, grow and provide a service to customers that is national in scope while bringing the key operational functions under the Ranger framework.

“Ranger has an impressive track record, coupled with its experienced management team and clear organic growth and acquisition strategy, made this a compelling opportunity for Apera.

“We’re pleased to be partnering with Ranger as the company enters the next phase of its expansion along with Hyperion.”

The funding will support the next phase of growth and acquisition activity during 2026

Moore Barlow supports New Path Fire & Security on 13 transactions

by Featured NewsMergers & Acquisitions

New Path Fire & Security partnership with Moore Barlow

Moore Barlow has advised New Path Fire & Security on 13 transactions worth £47 million since 2019.

The relationship began around six years ago, with both organisations based in Southampton and introduced through a debt broker.

Moore Barlow advised on the acquisition that established New Path as a trading entity.

At the outset of the relationship, the firm worked within tight budget constraints and provided flexible rates.

Transactions, financing and acquisition examples

Moore Barlow’s work has included 11 further acquisitions and a major financing deal for New Path.

New Path now operates nationally across fire risk assessments, fire protection, security systems and passive fire safety.

A £20 million 30-year royalty financing arrangement was secured in 2022 with an AIM-listed institutional investor.

That financing supported two acquisitions which expanded both geography and technical capabilities.

The acquisition of BDi Security Solutions completed in 10 weeks.

The purchase of Electrifire Limited in April 2024 strengthened New Path’s position in the London commercial market.

Kirsty Leary said: “New Path Fire & Security is the kind of client we love working with, we’ve been privileged to support them from day one, through every acquisition and milestone.

“What makes this partnership significant is the trust that has developed over six years.

“We know their business inside out, we understand their strategic goals, and we can work quickly on any deal.

“It is a long standing relationship and we are proud to continue supporting their growth ambitions.”

Jeremy Over said: “Working with New Path Fire & Security over a sustained period has shown what can be achieved through clear planning and consistent execution.

“Their focus and pace have driven each deal forward and it has been rewarding to help them build a platform that now operates across the country.

“Their progress speaks to a shared understanding of how to move quickly and get complex transactions over the line.”

Andrew Hill said: “Moore Barlow has been a consistent and trusted partner from the very start of our journey.

“Their practical advice and flexible approach allowed us to take our first steps as a business and have continued to support us through every acquisition and financing milestone.

“Their understanding of our goals and the market has been invaluable in helping us grow and expand our services across the UK, in what is an important industry to people’s safety.”

Moore Barlow said New Path Fire & Security is one of several clients it has supported through multiple acquisitions.

Asset Protection Group acquires ADJ Fire & Security to expand UK coverage

by Featured NewsMergers & Acquisitions

Asset Protection Group acquires ADJ Fire & Security

Asset Protection Group has acquired ADJ Fire & Security, expanding its UK fire and security service portfolio and presence in the compliance sector.

The company said the acquisition strengthens its position as a provider of security and fire life-safety services across the UK.

Asset Protection Group reported that ADJ Fire & Security’s experienced team of national engineers will support its ability to deliver end-to-end compliance, protection and support.

The acquisition aligns with Asset Protection Group’s strategy to build a national network of fire and security specialists offering accredited services including fire detection, suppression, CCTV, alarm systems, emergency response and compliance support.

ADJ Fire & Security continues under existing brand

Asset Protection Group said ADJ Fire & Security was founded in 2014 and is based in Bolton.

ADJ Fire & Security delivers fire detection, CCTV, intruder alarm, access control and fire extinguisher solutions to commercial, industrial and residential clients.

The company has an established customer base that includes regional and national contracts.

Asset Protection Group stated that ADJ Fire & Security will continue to operate under its existing brand, with its current team remaining in place.

The group said customers will continue to receive service, maintenance and installation work from ADJ Fire & Security while gaining access to greater resources and an expanded service offering.

Leadership outlines rationale for ADJ acquisition

Asset Protection Group said the acquisition supports the further growth of its footprint in the fire and security sector and progresses its goal to expand in the compliance sector.

Ben Jackson, Group Managing Director of Asset Protection Group, said: “ADJ is an excellent addition to APG.

“ADJ has a fantastic reputation for technical expertise and customer service with long-standing relationships with customers at a regional and national level.

“Bringing them into the Group allows us to expand the range of fire and security solutions that we are able to deliver to our customers.

“Supported by the scale and investment of APG we look forward to working with the leadership team at ADJ.”

Additional comment came from ADJ Fire & Security’s leadership.

Andy Moore, Managing Director and Liam Hargreaves, Sales Director of ADJ Fire & Security, added: “Joining APG marks an exciting next chapter for ADJ.

“The Group shares our values with long-term focus on quality and compliance.

“Our customers will benefit from greater resources and an expanded service offering, while our team gains the backing needed to grow and innovate.”

Implications for UK fire and security procurement

The integration of ADJ Fire & Security into Asset Protection Group brings fire detection, CCTV, intruder alarm, access control and fire extinguisher services into a wider compliance-focused group.

Asset Protection Group stated that the combined offer covers customers from national multi-site operators to SMEs, giving procurement officers a broader single-group option for security and fire life-safety services.

Facility managers responsible for commercial, industrial and residential properties may now see ADJ Fire & Security delivering service, maintenance and installation work while remaining under its own brand within Asset Protection Group.

System installers, fire-protection contractors and electrical contractors coordinating projects with ADJ Fire & Security will be engaging with a business that is part of a national network of fire and security specialists.

Risk assessors and fire engineering consultants working with clients on compliance strategies can note that Asset Protection Group’s stated service range spans fire detection, suppression, CCTV, alarm systems, emergency response and compliance support delivered through its growing network.

Ranger expands into South West with Universal Fire and Security acquisition

by Featured NewsMergers & Acquisitions

Ranger expands into South West

Ranger Fire and Security has acquired Plymouth-based Universal Fire and Security, marking its entry into the South West of England and adding a thirteenth business to its growing fire and security services network across the UK and Ireland.

The company confirmed that Universal will continue to trade under its existing name, with its current leadership team remaining in place.

Ranger said the move is intended to create a one-stop solution for customers in Devon and Cornwall, while linking Universal closely with other businesses in the group.

According to the company, the acquisition forms part of a strategy to build a national provider that combines strong regional expertise with shared operational standards.

The deal has been completed with the backing of Hyperion Equity Partners, which supports Ranger’s buy-and-build programme across the UK and Ireland.

Universal Fire and Security service offering

Universal Fire and Security was founded in 2001 by Managing Director Mark Gibson, initially focusing on security systems before expanding into fire protection services across Devon and Cornwall.

The company now provides intruder detection systems, CCTV, fire alarms, automatic opening vent systems, access control systems and emergency lighting.

Its portfolio also covers call systems, fire extinguishers, maintenance and monitoring, and automatic gates and barriers for customers across the region.

Universal’s work is centred on maintenance and maintenance-related services, which account for more than 90% of its business, with the remainder made up of new installations.

Ranger stated that Universal has built a loyal customer base over more than two decades by focusing on technical expertise and service quality.

Mark Gibson, Founder and Managing Director of Universal Fire and Security, said: “At Universal we pride ourselves on our repeat business and loyal customer base which is a testament to the high-quality fire and security services we deliver across the South West.

“A major pull for joining the Ranger Group is being able to benefit from the Group’s operational expertise, helping us ensure we are providing the most high-quality service possible, while also enabling us to expand our reach across not only the South West region, but beyond into other parts of the country.”

Leadership continuity and regional focus

Ranger confirmed that Universal’s existing leadership team will remain in place and will work closely with other businesses in the group.

The company said Universal will lead its operations in Devon and Cornwall, providing a regional hub for services across the South West.

Mark Bridges, CEO of Ranger Fire and Security, said: “We are honoured to be chosen by Mark [Gibson] and team in a highly competitive process to be his partner moving forward and opening the next chapter as part of the Ranger Group.”

Ranger added that Gibson and fellow director Chris have been key to the company’s assessment of the deal.

The firm said they have shown a clear ambition to grow Universal both organically and through further acquisition.

According to Ranger, the leadership team’s approach and customer-focused culture align with its wider strategy for building a network of trusted regional specialists under a single group structure.

Acquisitions shaping UK and Ireland network

Ranger stated that the purchase of Universal Fire and Security is its thirteenth acquisition since the group launched in early 2024.

The company said it is also the sixth acquisition completed this year.

Universal’s addition follows earlier deals for B-Safe Group and Aqua Fire Prevention in Ireland and IRN Security in Scotland.

Ranger explained that these acquisitions are intended to build coverage across key regions, combining local knowledge with centralised operational and technological support.

By integrating Universal into the group, Ranger aims to create new opportunities for cross-selling and collaboration across the South West and the wider network.

The company said its goal is to develop a fire and security services provider that can support customers at both regional and national level through a consistent service model.

Operational impact for South West customers

Ranger highlighted that Universal’s focus on maintenance and maintenance-related services fits with its emphasis on long-term customer relationships.

The company said customers in Devon and Cornwall will have access to a broader pool of technical support as Universal links into the wider Ranger network.

According to Ranger, the acquisition is expected to create a single point of contact for organisations that require both fire protection and security services across multiple sites.

The group stated that Universal will benefit from shared systems and processes, including operational and technological support from other Ranger businesses.

Ranger added that the combined offer is aimed at helping customers manage fire alarms, security systems and related services more efficiently across their estates.

Operational relevance of Ranger’s Universal acquisition

The acquisition of Universal Fire and Security gives organisations in Devon and Cornwall access to a provider that can deliver fire alarms, intruder systems, CCTV and related services under one regional brand.

Facility managers in commercial, industrial and public-sector buildings can work with a company that concentrates most of its activity on maintenance and maintenance-related services, which Ranger said account for more than 90% of Universal’s business.

For procurement officers responsible for fire and security contracts, the deal means Universal can draw on the wider Ranger network while retaining local leadership and an established customer base.

System installers, fire-protection contractors and electrical contractors may see changes in how projects are specified and supported, as Universal connects its service offering with other Ranger businesses in the UK and Ireland.

Cross-regional operators with sites in Scotland, Ireland and the South West can engage with brands that already exist within the Ranger group, including B-Safe Group, Aqua Fire Prevention and IRN Security, when planning multi-site fire and security strategies.

Wardour Fire & Security and PAT-iT reveal partnership

by Breaking NewsSafety

Wardour Fire & Security, a provider of fire and security solutions and PAT-iT, specialists in electrical & fire safety inspection & testing, have announced a partnership to provide a full suite of fire safety services to businesses nationwide.

The collaboration, effective immediately, aims to streamline compliance and enhance workplace safety through integrated fire protection, maintenance and testing solutions.

By combining Wardour’s fire safety knowledge with PAT-iT’s expertise in fire and electrical safety, the partnership will offer UK businesses a single, trusted provider for fire alarm installation, maintenance, emergency lighting, fire extinguisher servicing and electrical compliance.

This approach is designed to simplify safety management, reduce administrative burden and ensure full regulatory compliance under the latest UK fire safety legislation.

Director, Wardour Fire & Security, Simon Pell’s statement

Simon Pell, Director of Wardour Fire & Security explained: “Our partnership with PAT-iT represents a major step forward in making safety simpler and more accessible for organisations of all sizes,.

“Businesses no longer need to juggle multiple contractors. We’re offering a complete, end-to-end safety solution they can rely on.”

Director, PAT-iT, Lee Turtle TMIET’s statement

Lee Turtle TMIET, Director of PAT-iT, added: “We have been working with Wardour Fire & Security on a few projects in recent months, so collaborating in partnership seemed the next logical step.

“Together, we can offer clients the reassurance of expert compliance across both electrical and fire safety disciplines. “

It’s about saving time, ensuring safety and providing total peace of mind.”

Wardour Fire & Security and PAT-iT reveal partnership: Summary

Wardour Fire & Security and PAT-iT have announced a partnership to provide a full suite of fire safety services to businesses nationwide.

Ranger Fire and Security launches to reshape fire and security services in the UK

by Featured NewsFire Detection
Left to right is David Lee (CFO), Mark Bridges (CEO) & Ian Teader (MD)

Entry into the market with strategic acquisitions

Ranger Fire and Security has announced its entrance into the fire and security market, marking the beginning of its mission to transform the sector through strategic acquisitions.

The company, founded by specialists in the industry and service business experts, aims to consolidate high-quality fire and security businesses under one parent company.

The initial acquisitions, Ignis Fire Protection Ltd and Amerex Fire International Ltd, are set to form the cornerstone of a platform designed to introduce innovative solutions to the UK’s fire and security sector.

Ignis Fire Protection Ltd, known for its exceptional service quality in fire detection and security, is based in the Midlands.

Amerex Fire International Ltd, a provider of vehicle and kitchen suppression services with national coverage, boasts long-standing relationships with a key fire extinguisher distributor and service provider.

These acquisitions underscore Ranger’s commitment to enhancing service delivery within the highly skilled and regulated UK fire and security market.

Strategic collaboration for industry excellence

Ranger’s strategy focuses on overcoming the fragmentation in the fire and security market by fostering a collaborative and efficient industry platform.

Businesses joining Ranger will receive support in growth strategies, finance, and expertise pooling.

This approach not only aims to enhance the value for customers but also to preserve the culture and relationships established by the service providers.

Corporate organisations, charities, and public sector bodies will benefit from a comprehensive level of service that meets all their regulatory obligations in fire safety and security.

Mark Bridges, CEO of Ranger Fire and Security, emphasised the potential for collective strength in the industry: “The UK’s fire and security industry has seen significant transformation, and we believe the best businesses can be stronger together – working collaboratively to offer high-quality services under one umbrella.”

Vision for growth and industry leadership

The collaboration with Ignis Fire Protection and Amerex Fire International marks the beginning of Ranger’s journey to become a leading entity in the fire and security services industry.

Supported by Hyperion, a group of experienced private equity investors, Ranger has the resources for further investments, acquisitions, and innovations.

The management team, including industry veterans like CEO Mark Bridges and Managing Director Ian Teader, offers unmatched expertise to companies within the Ranger group.

Steve Evans, Managing Director of Amerex, and Martin Donald, Founder of Ignis Fire Protection, both expressed their enthusiasm for joining Ranger.

They highlighted the opportunities for growth and the shared ethos of customer care that Ranger promotes.

With plans for continued expansion through strategic collaborations and acquisitions, Ranger is poised to strengthen its leadership in the UK’s fire and security market.

IFSJ Comment

By uniting leading service providers under one umbrella, Ranger Fire and Security’s launch is setting a new standard for collaboration and innovation in an industry characterised by its necessity for precision and reliability.

This model promises enhanced service quality for customers and offer a sustainable path for growth and development for businesses within the sector.

Family fire and security firm reaches 35-Year milestone

by Featured News

A Warwickshire family’s fire and security venture reaches £1.9 million turnover, a testament to its local community ties and dedication to innovative security solutions.

MES Systems, a family-run fire and security systems firm based in Nuneaton, celebrates its 35th anniversary this month with a stellar 20% annual growth. Now a well-established local enterprise, the firm’s turnover reached £1.9 million in the past year.

While growing their business, the Morgan family has managed to keep over 96% of their work rooted in repeat business or referrals. This trust has been fostered by the firm’s unwavering commitment to family values. “We are very proud of our traditional values and the trust customers have in us,” said Richard Morgan, the current managing director and son of the company’s founder, Andy Morgan.

MES Systems offers a range of services, from bespoke access control systems, industrial CCTV, gate automation systems to integrated fire alarms and intruder alarm monitoring. The firm has come a long way from its beginnings in 1988 when Andy Morgan started the business as an electrical contractor.

Growth supported by grants and investment in workforce

Looking to bolster its growth, MES Systems recently secured two grants worth over £11,000 from the Coventry and Warwickshire Business Support Programme, funded in part by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). A chunk of this grant was used for purchasing and branding two new vans, a move meant to “land new business,” as per the firm’s statement.

To meet increasing demand, the company created two new roles and promoted an apprentice. The firm’s management believes this investment in people, including a new service co-ordinator and service engineer, will be crucial in supporting its continued expansion.

Commitment to community

The firm’s clientele includes not just small and medium enterprises but also global companies and local institutions. Councils, retailers such as Aldi, schools, colleges, housebuilders, and leisure venues including Twycross Zoo are among its customers. The firm also counts supply chain specialist GEFCO as a client, recently installing a complex biometric access control system at GEFCO’s massive Coventry logistics centre.

Even with this success, MES Systems has not forgotten its roots, maintaining a firm commitment to community support. The firm has assisted local organisations like the Nuneaton and Warwickshire Wildlife Sanctuary and the Beryl Kerby Schoolroom, often providing services free of charge. Additionally, they support groups like Mary Ann Evans Hospice, 11th Nuneaton Scout Group, Myton Hospice, and Nuneaton Town Football Club.

As Richard Morgan put it, “As we celebrate our 35th anniversary, we want to thank our customers and our team for making our company what it is today.”

Chubb launches accelerated development programme for Fire and Security industry

by Featured NewsProjectsTraining

Chubb, a UK provider of fire-safety and security solutions, has launched an accelerated development programme designed to attract and train new industry-entrants in partnership with Zitko Talent, a recruitment agency for the Fire and Security industry.

The accelerated development programme will last approximately 18 weeks, starting with alternating blocks of technical training, field experience and manufacturer-led certified product training. Trainees will finish the programe as certified Fire and Security engineers, equipped with the knowledge required to work within Chubb’s installation and maintenance teams.  

The programme will leverages Zitko’s expertise to attract and select candidates. As part of the process, specialist psychometric testing is to identify outstanding technical and learning potential. Chubb will then select and employ trainees from the pool, with manufacturers and educators contributing around 18-weeks of technical education and certified product training; all tailored to Chubb’s needs. 

The Zitko Talent team administers the entire programme on behalf of Chubb, while supporting/mentoring trainees. 

Andrew Collinson, Operations Director for Electronic Security, Chubb UK, said: “We have developed our own entry level engineers in-house before and some of our most successful people began with us this way. 

The accelerated development programme takes this to the next level. I believe it will be a significant source of talent; giving us people who will progress with us long-term. The programme’s been designed as a gateway for those who may or may not have previous engineering experience. 

The key requirements are ‘aptitude and attitude’; qualities which recruitment partner Zitko Talent will assess with their proven selection process.  By focusing on these qualities, Chubb aims to unearth hidden talent, especially among groups who are traditionally underrepresented in the industry”. 

Zitko Group’s Managing Director, George Zitko, commented: “Chubb has an apprentice scheme already, but they’ve recognised the value of the Talent approach. That is, developing people with transferable skills and giving them a pathway into the industry”.