Computerised & Digital Security Systems (CDS), a leading provider of bespoke security systems, has been acquired in a multi-million-pound deal. The Pontypridd-based business has been bought by Johnson Controls (JCI), which provides security equipment for buildings.
Established in 1990, CDS offers a fully integrated service including CCTV, fire alarms, access control, perimeter intruder detection systems and automatic number plate recognition software. It blue-chip customer base includes private and public sector organisations including utility companies, local councils, universities, shopping centres and large corporates.
The acquisition of CDS enables JCI to extend its customer base in key account target verticals and further build on CDS’ offering to its customers. The transaction complements the recent acquisitions of WOT Security, NT Security and Esotec, adding strength to JCI’s electronic security capabilities in networked intrusion, CCTV and access control.
Cardiff-gased Gambit Corporate Finance acted as lead advisor to the shareholders of CDS on initiating, negotiating and structuring the transaction. The Gambit team comprised Frank Holmes (partner) and Simon Marsden (director).
Simon Moon, founder and chief of CDS, said: “The transaction represents a significant milestone for the business and provides significant opportunities to CDS to further expand our service offering and customer base. I would like to thank the highly experienced team at Gambit for their role in sourcing, advising, negotiating and executing the transaction. Gambit were wholly committed, provided an excellent level of service and their commercial knowledge and advice guided us smoothly throughout the process from start to finish. We were always well-informed about what to expect next as the transaction progressed, which allowed us to be well-prepared and focused.”
Mr Marsden said: “Over the last 30 years, Simon and the CDS team have built an excellent business which has consistently delivered exceptional levels of service for its customers. It was a pleasure for us to advise on this milestone in the company’s history.
“CDS is a valuable addition to JCI’s expanding portfolio and highlights the extensive appetite from acquirers seeking resilient UK businesses. We look forward to seeing the business continue to prosper under JCI’s ownership.”
Berry Smith provided legal advice to the shareholders. Its team was led by Andrew Bound and Owen James.
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