Orbis Protect (‘Orbis’), a UK market leader in specialist security and protection services, has completed the strategic acquisition of Vigilance Properties Limited (‘Vigilance’). Vigilance is a leading security specialist offering innovative people and technology security solutions.
In joining the Orbis group of companies, Vigilance provides a unique solution set, differentiated from traditional security firms. Their tailored service includes security in residence, integrated technology solutions and high-end surveillance and close protection services.
Vigilance’s specialist expertise will enhance the Orbis security service portfolio, enabling the combined group to further build on its vision to deliver enhanced technology led customer solutions. New and existing customers of both companies will benefit from an improved and more specialised security offering, supported by industry leading technology solutions to deliver an outstanding and unparalleled customer experience.
Founded in 2008, Vigilance proudly employs ex-Armed Forces personnel as part of their specialist services to customers throughout the UK. Their military heritage and ethical approach set them apart in supporting the wider military community both in the UK and overseas. The business also brings excellent ESG credentials to the group, including having held B Corp status since 2022.
The business has grown extremely successfully under its current management team, led by Seb Mackenzie-Wilson (Vigilance CEO) and Ed Mills (Vigilance COO). As a specialist services arm of the Orbis Group, it is intended that Vigilance will retain its identity and management structure. Seb and Ed will continue to lead the business into its next phase of growth with the full support of the Orbis Group.
Orbis Protect CEO, Ben Howard commented: “I am delighted to welcome Vigilance into the Orbis family. Seb, Ed and the Vigilance management team have built a very successful, market leading business.
They differentiate themselves from traditional security companies by offering highly specialised security solutions, including security-in-residence services that are extremely complementary with our market leading technology.
This combination provides customers with solutions that are unique in the market and is completely aligned with our long-term growth strategy and vision.”
Vigilance CEO, Seb MacKenzie-Wilson commented: “The team and I are thrilled to be joining Ben and the entire Orbis management team in this next phase of the Vigilance journey, which we believe will be sector defining.
Our commitment to delivering security with integrity is a founding pillar of our business. Shared values are central to our relationships with our customers, and infuse the long term partnerships that we enjoy with businesses that have supported our growth over the past 15 years.
Becoming part of the wider Orbis Group is a unique opportunity for us to continue to develop and sustain that ongoing journey, supplementing our market-leading licensed security and risk management products with enhanced technological and systems based security solutions.”
The acquisition was supported by financing provided by Ardian. Orbis was advised on the acquisition by Squire Patton Boggs (Legal), PWC (Financial and Tax Due Diligence) and Deloitte (Tax advisory). Vigilance and its shareholders were advised by Locke Lord (Legal), and BDO (Financial & Tax).
