Glasgow security firm boosted by acquisition

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07/05/2018

A Glasgow firm has become the premier provider of security solutions in Central Scotland following the acquisition of a security alarm business. Connelly Security Systems Ltd (CSS) has acquired AFA Fire & Security Ltd of Bathgate in a seven-figure transaction. The deal has allowed CSS to increase its market share and boost its turnover to over £9M a year.

Providing a single solution

Serving both the commercial and residential sectors, CSS provides a comprehensive range of products that help customers fulfil all their security requirements with a single provider. CSS provides intruder alarms, fire alarms, CCTV, retail product tagging, access control and monitoring and more. The deal, supported by Clydesdale Bank Cashflow Finance, has also increased CSS customer base to over 25,000.

CSS, which launched in 1986, is based in the Possil Park area of Glasgow and the acquisition sees its headcount increase to 130.

Increasing coverage

Paul Connelly, Managing Director at CSS, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to increase both the customer base and geographic coverage of CSS through the acquisition of a quality business which the vendors have developed over the last 18 years. I was delighted to receive the continued support of Clydesdale Bank, who we have worked with for over 30 years, which enabled the acquisition terms to be agreed quickly and completion achieved in a short timescale.

“It’s an important milestone in CSS’ journey and we look forward to continuing to grow the business and enhance the service we can offer to our customers.”

Excellent working relationship

Mark Young, Director, SME Cashflow Finance, Clydesdale Bank, said: “We have developed an excellent working relationship with CSS, and their commitment to delivering the optimal customer experience at every interaction is an approach that makes them a successful business. They have been involved in a number of acquisitions which have been successfully integrated into the CSS operating model. This has created strong sustainable cashflow enabling this sizable acquisition to be funded through our Cashflow Finance offering.

“At Clydesdale Bank, we are committed to working with SMEs to ensure they fulfill their growth aspirations.”