Allied Universal acquires SOS Security

SANTA ANA, Calif.—Allied Universal, a security and facility services company based here, and SOS Security, a provider of global security services, announced a merger that will increase Allied's footprint and global reach, adding 15,000 employees.

“I am thrilled to welcome Edward Silverman — one of the most highly regarded leaders of the security industry — and the SOS Security team to the Allied Universal family,” Allied Universal CEO Steve Jones said in the announcement. “Like Allied Universal, SOS Security has built a renowned and respected brand of security services. Now, working together, we will be able to combine the best of both brands to elevate security services, the breadth and reach of capabilities and opportunity to provide new security solutions.”

Founded in 1969, SOS Security brings a complementary and scalable approach to security services to Allied Universal. With offices in five countries, SOS provides safety, security, executive protection, intelligence, consultancy and advisory services, including more than 2,000 assignments last year in over 100 countries through its subsidiary, AS Solution. SOS Security has among the highest retention rates in the industry with respect to customers and security personnel, the company said.

The joining of Allied Universal and SOS Security establishes a combined force of more than 230,000 security professionals.

Following the merger, SOS Security CEO and Founder Edward Silverman will serve as co-chairman of the executive committee and an advisor to the board of directors, bringing his vision of scalable boutique security service to Allied Universal.

“Delivering personalized services, whether operating under a billion or at $10 billion, has always been my mission,” said Silverman. “As part of Allied Universal, and with shared values and purpose, we have a remarkable opportunity to bring specialized security services that reflect client priorities and attract the best resources and strategic partners to the industry.”