Universal Protection Security Systems acquires, expanding its capabilities

SANTA ANA, Calif.—Universal Protection Security Systems has announced the acquisition of video security services provider THRIVE Intelligence—allowing Universal Protection Security Systems to expand its surveillance offerings.

With the purchase of THRIVE, Universal Protection Security Systems, a full-service security provider that is a division of Universal Services of America, can now expand its national command center and provide advanced security surveillance solutions, according to a Nov. 27 news release. From its Dallas central command center, THRIVE offers end-to-end surveillance solutions with video monitoring, analytics, audio intervention, GPS tracking and alarm monitoring.

“The acquisition of THRIVE Intelligence is part of our overall strategy to provide our clients with a 'total security' solutions approach, where we deliver more services and value to our clients than any other security provider is capable of,” said Steve Jones, president of Universal Services of America, in a prepared statement.

Universal Services of America, which is based here, also has a guard division, called Universal Protection Service. On Nov. 26, that division announced the acquisition of security services provider IPC International. The acquisition will make Universal Protection Service a “major player” in shopping center security, according to a news release.

IPC International was founded 35 years ago and secures more than 450 properties around the world.

“With the acquisition of IPC International, Universal Protection Service is now the leader in security guard services for retail properties in the U.S.,” Jones said, in a prepared statement. 

Together, Universal Protection Service and IPC have more than 80 years of security experience, Brian Cescolini, executive chairman of Universal Services of America, said in the news release. Universal Protection Service will now offer security for more than 500 malls and retail centers, according to Cescolini. 

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