Identiv - Experts & Thought Leaders

Vitaprotech, the European pioneer in electronic security solutions, is taking a major step forward in its growth strategy by reshaping its organisation. The objective: to offer its clients an enhanced experience — simpler, more consistent, and ever more innovative. Starting July 1st, the group will adopt a new organisation built around strong brands, each dedicated to a specific sales channel. This approach will provide clients with tailored support, an integrated technology offering, and easier access to the group’s full range of expertise — including access control, intrusion & perimeter protection, and AI-powered video — all operated through a single unified platform. A new organisation designed with clients in mind  “We want to make security easier to manage, more efficient, and more connected — no matter the site, the country, or the type of client,” says Éric Thord, CEO of Vitaprotech. HIRSCH, the international brand resulting from the late 2024 acquisition of the security business of U.S.-based IDENTIV, is dedicated to the systems integrator sales channel. By bringing together under one unified banner the brands TIL Technologies, Sorhea, Cossilys, and Neo InSys in France, Harper Chalice in the UK, and Protech and Hirsch in the United States, the group offers a strong, coherent, and instantly recognisable brand on a global scale. This consolidation unifies local and international expertise to provide integrators with tailored solutions for every region and site type — whether industrial, commercial, institutional, or governmental.  For the integrators: a comprehensive, interoperable offering, and a trusted local partner to tackle the most complex security challenges — anywhere in the world. PRYSM, the group’s software publisher, becomes the single point of entry for service operators and OEMs. Formed through the merger of PRYSM and ESI, and strengthened by the group’s artificial intelligence expertise, the new Prysm entity establishes itself as the software reference for smart, open, and scalable security management. With a unified offering covering monitoring, PSIM, video management, and AI, Prysm enables its clients to deliver fully customisable, interoperable white-label solutions — ready for on-premise, hosted, or fully cloud-based environments. For clients: tailor-made, white-label solutions designed for new uses — enabling the creation of adaptable security software tailored to each end customer. Vauban Systems (France) and TDSi (UK) target the distribution network. Thanks to their commercial agility, they make Vitaprotech's innovation accessible to all distributors seeking reliable, high-performance, and intuitive products. Vauban Systems in France completes its product range by integrating the FoxBox and FoxVigi products from Foxstream. For distributors: products available quickly, ready to install, with local support. ARD remains dedicated to clients with high service requirements. It will offer a complete, turnkey solution combining cutting-edge technologies and premium support. ARD will continue to serve its portfolio of clients with a diverse and innovative offering, integrating access control, payment solutions, video surveillance, intrusion detection, and intercom systems, and will be responsible for marketing and providing services associated with GS4 alert transmission solutions. For clients: a turnkey offering and a single partner, from installation to commissioning. One ambition: simplifying access to the security of tomorrow Vitaprotech is focusing on a unified platform capable of managing all aspects of security Vitaprotech is focusing on a unified platform capable of managing all aspects of security. The result: a global, centralised, and proactive approach to safety, serving the performance of all types of sites, from the simplest to the most demanding. This transformation is supported by an increase in R&D investments: 25% of the workforce and 10% of revenue are dedicated to innovation, with six key areas: artificial intelligence, Cloud, cybersecurity, interoperability, unified management, and user experience.  "We combine the best of technologies and talents to help our clients stay ahead. With our new organisation, we offer them more than just a solution: a true performance lever," explains Eric Thord, CEO of Vitaprotech. An international vision, a local impact With solutions present in over 70 countries, Vitaprotech strengthens its local presence while leveraging the power of its group. This new dynamic aims to build the international pioneer in electronic security, capable of addressing the most critical challenges, from the perimeter to the core of the organisation.  "Our goal is to deliver to our customers and partners the most advanced high-security solutions, from the perimeter to the core of the organisation. Our advanced access control, video analytics, perimeter security and integrated monitoring platform integrates all key components of physical security." "Our new organisation combines this focus with the complete range of deeply technical capabilities scale. It positions us as the trusted partner to our customer and the pioneer in the industry of the next generation of cloud-based, AI-enabled, IT-integrated physical security for security-critical applications globally," says Steve Humphreys, Deputy CEO of Vitaprotech.

Hirsch, a global security technology pioneer advancing physical security, video intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital identification solutions, announces the relaunch of its iconic brand and strengthened focus on the industry’s most complete high-security, end-to-end platform. This milestone follows the purchase of Identiv’s physical and cybersecurity business units by Vitaprotech, positioning Hirsch as the global pioneer in physical security, video intelligence, and identity solutions, protecting everything from small enterprises to critical national infrastructure. Physical and cybersecurity platform With a 43-year-strong foundation in the industry, Hirsch’s mission has always been empowering a secure, connected world, combining government-grade high security with ease of use. This mission drives the company forward as it integrates Vitaprotech’s industry-pioneering technologies with its own trusted solutions. The combined company delivers the industry’s most complete enterprise-scale physical and cybersecurity platform. Reaching from the furthest perimeter to individual buildings, doors, and desktops, the combined company will offer unmatched capabilities, with a comprehensive product suite designed to secure everything from high-security government facilities to everyday business environments. Hirsch’s identity systems The combined platform delivers end-to-end security keys that are feature-rich, scalable, and secure With $185 million in revenue and 700 employees, including over 100 dedicated software engineers, the combined platform delivers end-to-end security solutions that are feature-rich, scalable, and highly secure. The expanded platform encompasses command and control systems (PSIM), access control, video surveillance, credentialing, door readers, sensors, intercom, and perimeter protection. Hirsch’s identity systems, such as FIDO2 security keys, provide robust digital security, protecting against cyber threats like data breaches and identity theft. This comprehensive product range positions Hirsch to serve a wide range of customers, from small enterprises to high-security environments like government buildings. Challenges across cybersecurity “Hirsch has always been at the forefront of delivering highly secure solutions. This merger with Vitaprotech allows us to take our product range to the next level,” said Steve Humphreys, former Identiv CEO and newly appointed Vitaprotech Deputy CEO. “Together, we are the security the world needs. Today’s security managers face technical challenges across cybersecurity, cloud, mobile, back-door threats, and more, while managing tight budgets and requirements to leverage in-place investments." Physical and digital worlds Humphreys added: "Hirsch’s promise has always been highly secure, enterprise scale, cost-effective, and enduring solutions that are both open and complete. We put enterprise customers first. With Vitaprotech, we now provide the most complete high-security, end-to-end platform in the industry, with a truly balanced, multi-local business presence." "From access control to video surveillance, perimeter protection to identity solutions, Hirsch is uniquely positioned to protect both the physical and digital worlds, ensuring our customers can secure what matters most.” A shared vision for total security Hirsch and Vitaprotech share a joint vision: to give the world’s most total high-security platform Hirsch and Vitaprotech share a common vision: to deliver the world’s most comprehensive high-security platform. Both companies have focused on delivering mission-critical solutions, with Hirsch’s extensive presence in the U.S. federal government and commercial enterprise security complementing Vitaprotech’s leadership in Europe. This acquisition creates one of the most geographically balanced security companies, with major market share in the U.S. and EMEA. "This acquisition is a perfect match,” said Eric Thord, Vitaprotech President. ”By combining our strengths and leveraging our geographic presence, we are now able to offer truly global solutions. Hirsch’s dominance in the U.S. federal market, coupled with our leadership in Europe, allows us to provide unparalleled security capabilities to clients around the world. We are excited about this new chapter and the innovative opportunities it brings for the security industry.” Expanding engineering and innovation A critical strength of the acquisition is the expansion of Hirsch’s engineering team, now bolstered by over 100 software engineers from Vitaprotech. “The hardest part of growing a technology company is finding the right talent, but with this combination, we’ve immediately expanded our engineering capacity,” said Mark Allen, newly appointed Hirsch CEO. “This allows us to accelerate our development of cutting-edge security solutions and continue pioneering the industry in innovation.” Enhance the security with Hirsch Hirsch systems are designed to give frictionless access control and extensive protection inside and out Hirsch’s expanded platform offers end-to-end solutions, from on-premises and cloud-based access control systems to video management and telephone entry systems. Robust and feature-rich, Hirsch systems are designed to deliver frictionless access management and comprehensive protection inside and out, offering the highest level of security at the lowest cost. “Hirsch and Vitaprotech together bring an unmatched combination of advanced security solutions,” added Mr. Thord. “Our complete product range and geographic reach enable us to scale and adapt to any security challenge, whether it’s protecting critical infrastructure, government facilities, or commercial enterprises.” Future growth and innovation This merger sets the stage for future growth and innovation, as both companies are committed to expanding their reach in the security market. With shared engineering resources and a focus on innovation, the combined company will continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in physical and digital security. “Our joint expertise and shared vision ensure that we will continue to deliver solutions that not only meet today’s security needs but also anticipate the challenges of tomorrow”, added Mr. Humphreys. “We are excited about the opportunities ahead and the impact our combined company will have on the global security landscape.”

The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States ("CFIUS") has now approved Identiv's transaction to sell its physical security business and assets to Vitaprotech, the security solutions provider that also acquired British manufacturer, Tdsi in 2019. The Identiv sale was originally announced in April this year, but was subject to regulatory approval under the Hart-Scott-Rodino (HSR) Act and to approval from the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS). On August 15, 2024, Identiv received notification of approval from the Department of Treasury, on behalf of the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States. CFIUS determined that there were no unresolved national security concerns; therefore, action under Section 721 with respect to the transaction was concluded. CFIUS approval Having met all regulatory requirements and received shareholder approval of the transaction, all regulatory and statutory conditions for closing have been satisfied. Both parties are now proceeding to close the transaction promptly. Based on the anticipated time needed to complete the actions required to close, Identiv and Vitaprotech expect to close the transaction within 30 days following CFIUS approval. Upon closing of the transaction, Identiv will receive a cash payment of $145 million, subject to customary adjustments. The proceeds from the sale will significantly strengthen Identiv’s financial position, providing capital to pursue growth opportunities for its specialty IoT solutions business.

Big news on the mergers and acquisitions (M&A) front is closing out 2024, a year in which several shifts changed the face of the physical security manufacturer community. Announced in December, German giant Bosch Group is selling its Building Technologies division’s product business for security and communications technology to the European investment firm Triton.  Bosch division selling to Triton  The transaction encompasses three business units – Video, Access and Intrusion, and Communication – and thus the entire product business of Bosch Building Technologies that was offered for sale. All 4,300 associates employed in these units at more than 90 locations worldwide will be taken over. The transaction reflects a growing confidence in the security market among private equity companies such as Triton, Becklar, and Volaris.   Sharing best practices Acre Security and Bosch will remain independent, standalone companies under Triton’s ownership Acre Security, previously acquired by Triton, has benefited from Triton’s strategic guidance and expertise, according to the company, which is confident Bosch will experience the same level of support and opportunity to thrive. Acre Security and Bosch will remain independent, standalone companies under Triton’s ownership, but will benefit from the potential to collaborate and share best practices as part of the broader Triton portfolio.  Resideo acquires Snap One  Earlier in 2024, there were other large M&A transactions. In the spring, Resideo Technologies, Inc., a manufacturer and distributor of technology-driven products and solutions, agreed to acquire Snap One Holdings Corp., a provider of smart-living products, services, and software to professional integrators. The transaction is valued at $1.4 billion, inclusive of net debt. Upon closing, Snap One becomes part of Resideo's ADI Global Distribution business.  Honeywell buys Carrier’s Access Solutions  In late 2023, Honeywell announced plans to enhance and strengthen its building automation capabilities with the acquisition of Carrier Global Corporation’s Global Access Solutions business for $4.95 billion, in an all-cash transaction.  The acquisition, which played out through 2024, includes both hardware and software solutions, adding three respected brands to Honeywell’s portfolio with a focus on life safety and digital access solutions. Acquired brands include LenelS2, commercial and enterprise access solutions; Onity electronic locks; and Supra cloud-based electronic real estate lock boxes. Hirsch reemerges as an iconic brand  The Identiv sale was originally announced in April, subject to regulatory approval Identiv announced plans to sell its physical security business and assets to Vitaprotech, the security solutions provider that also acquired British manufacturer, TDSI, in 2019. The Identiv sale was originally announced in April, subject to regulatory approval.  As a result of the sale, Hirsch, a global security technology pioneer advancing physical security, video intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital identification solutions, announces the relaunch of its iconic brand and strengthened focus on the industry’s most complete high-security, end-to-end platform.  Ease of use security solutions The move seeks to reposition Hirsch as the global pioneer in physical security, video intelligence, and identity solutions, protecting everything from small enterprises to critical national infrastructure. With a 43-year-strong foundation in the industry, Hirsch’s mission has always been empowering a secure, connected world, combining government-grade high security with ease of use. Milestone and Arcules unite  Effective July 1, 2024, global video technology company Milestone Systems announced its merger with the cloud-based video surveillance solutions provider, Arcules. Both companies are owned by Japanese multinational Canon Inc. Based in Irvine, Calif., Arcules was spun off from Milestone in 2017. The merger brings together Milestone and Arcules’ best-in-class capabilities within video management software (VMS), video analytics, and video surveillance as a service (VSaaS), providing a complete video technology offering.  More M&A stories in 2024  In other M&A moves in 2024, cloud-based workforce management software provider Synerion USA Inc. acquired cloud-based video surveillance and access control solutions platform Qumulex Inc. Also, the global pioneer in airspace awareness and security, Dedrone, became part of the public safety and technology company Axon. The acquisition unites two companies with a shared mission to improve public safety and national security by staying ahead of persistent and escalating threats, enabling faster, more effective responses and ultimately protecting more lives in more places.

Diversity in a company’s workforce is arguably more important now than ever. Societal awareness of the importance of diversity has grown, and many people see diversity as an important factor that reflects positively (or negatively) on a company’s culture and image in the marketplace. We asked this week’s Expert Panel Roundtable: What should the security industry do to promote workplace diversity?

Keeping prisoners safely housed is among the biggest challenges the security industry faces. Correctional applications of security technology are often more extreme and require a specialised mix of technologies. We asked our Expert Panel Roundtable: What are the video security and surveillance needs in prisons, and how well do technologies meet those needs? Are there any ethical qualms about selling to prisons?