The secret to Convergint’s successful M&A strategy

SCHAUMBURG, Ill.—Convergint, a global service-based systems integration company based here, continues to expand its footprint and capabilities on a global scale through an M&A strategy that focuses on aligning company cultures and focusing on certain geographic areas.

Convergint’s most recent acquisition of two business units from ATS Companies, ATS Alaska and ATS Facility Systems, expands The company’s Northwest presence and brings its first technology center in Alaska.

Sean Flint, Convergint’s Executive Vice President, told Security Systems News that the acquisitions of ATS Alaska and ATS Facility Systems aligns with the company’s culture of continued growth globally.

“Since day one, our founders and leaders have always embraced growth. It has become a big part of our company culture, which is the most critical aspect of who we are,” he explained. “Over the past few years, Convergint has focused on expanding its global footprint and deepening its expertise across growing vertical markets. This strategy allows us to scale alongside our customers to meet the growing demand for innovation and support them globally.”

ATS Alaska and ATS Facility Systems provide tailored service and solutions for integrated systems, including security, audio-visual, HVAC controls, fire and life safety, access control, healthcare, and more. Both companies specialize in design, installation, service, and performance management to best meet its customers' safety and security needs. 

Flint noted that both ATS companies were perfectly aligned with Convergint’s values, beliefs and culture, which facilitated the decision to acquire them.

“Each decision we make at Convergint must align with our company values and beliefs, including our approach to acquisitions,” noted. “It’s important the companies we look to acquire, such as ATS Alaska and ATS Facility Systems, align with our people-first, customer-centric, inclusive culture. Remaining focused on colleagues, customers, and ensuring a strong cultural alignment when it comes to acquisitions enables us to serve as our customers’ best service provider as we grow.”  

Currently operating as independent business units, ATS Alaska and ATS Facility Systems each foster a positive, inclusive culture, enabling them to provide customers with the highest level of service and top technology solutions.

“Each acquisition made by our team brings us tremendous value, especially in their experienced colleagues with vertical market expertise and local market knowledge,” Flint told SSN. “Acquiring ATS Alaska and ATS Facility Systems grants us the opportunity to establish our first office in Alaska and further enhances our current presence in the Northwest, strengthening our capabilities and helping us continue to meet the growing demand for services.”

Ken Lochiatto, CEO of Convergint, added, "We are thrilled to welcome our new colleagues from ATS, a tremendous company that we have worked with for many years and share similar cultural values with. This past year has been an incredible year of growth for our organization, welcoming over 1,000 new colleagues to Convergint. We continue to expand our footprint and capabilities globally and very much look forward to entering the Alaskan market and deepening our service capabilities across the Northwest."

"Convergint, ATS Alaska, and ATS Facility Systems share a mutual purpose and commitment to our industry," added David Rand, CEO of ATS Alaska and ATS Facility Systems. "We are excited to join Convergint, a company poised for tremendous growth globally, positioning us to continue providing superior customer service to our current and future clients. Our cultural fit enhances our ability to succeed, and we look forward to what's to come."

More than 75 colleagues will join Convergint's growing team, strengthening the company's capabilities and foothold across Washington, Oregon, Montana, Idaho, Colorado, Wyoming, and Alaska.

"Nearly 20 years ago, I sat down with the founders of Convergint to discuss their vision for the company. Since that time, I have continuously applauded their leadership, culture, and commitment to clients," noted Brian Allen, CEO of ATS Companies. "ATS Alaska and ATS Facility Systems are joining a phenomenal organization with outstanding leadership and strong principles. I have no doubt that the ATS colleagues and customers joining Convergint will excel in future endeavors.”