Allied Universal finalizes G4S deal after buyout saga

SANTA ANA, Calif.—Allied Universal's bid to acquire rival G4S was finalized this week with the announcement that the majority of G4S shareholders accepted a $5.28 billion buyout offer, only after rebuffing a final push for takeover by Canadian bidder GardaWorld.

The combination of Allied Universal and G4S will create an integrated security business with revenues of approximately $18 billion, a strong international platform and an extensive portfolio of blue-chip clients across the public and private sectors.

Allied Universal President and CEO Steve Jones told Security Systems News when the deal was first announced that he is extremely excited about bringing two leading security companies together.

“Our acquisition of G4S will enable Allied Universal to partner and grow with its Fortune 500 customers on a truly global basis and will be in a stronger position to drive industry standards of professionalism in the security sector around the world,” he said.

John Connolly, Chairman of the G4S Board noted that a very large proportion of shareholders accepted Allied Universal’s final offer. “The G4S board believes that the offer provides shareholders with an attractive premium, while securing the future success of G4S for employees, customers, pension scheme members and other stakeholders.”

He continued, “I would like to thank Ashley and his team together with all employees for the successful transformation of G4S in recent years, which has made this transaction possible and I would like to thank my fellow Board members for their excellent work. Finally, I would like to thank all of our shareholders for their strong support.”

G4S CEO Ashley Almanza added, “This unique combination will offer customers exceptional service and provides employees with an exciting future. I would like to thank the Board and our shareholders for their support and to thank colleagues across G4S for their outstanding contribution to the successful re-positioning of G4S that has made this transaction possible. My team and I look forward to working with Allied to support a successful integration of the two businesses.”