Allegion acquires UAP to expand UK fire and security offering
Iain Hoey
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Allegion announces acquisition of Manchester-based UAP
Allegion has acquired UAP Group Limited, a Manchester-based fire and security hardware manufacturer, according to a company announcement.
The company said UAP will join Allegion International, strengthening its position in the UK non-residential sector.
UAP manufactures door hardware solutions, including patented and trademarked products, and will now operate as part of Allegion’s broader European operations.
The purchase price has not been disclosed. UAP CEO David Jennings will remain with the business during the transition period.
UAP product line and intellectual property portfolio
According to Allegion, UAP holds close to 200 patents, registered designs, and trademarks across its range of door hardware.
Its Armasmart range, which the company said eliminates 99.98% of viruses including COVID-19, was highlighted as a key example of its product development.
Allegion stated that UAP’s design-led approach and responsiveness to customer needs were aligned with its global strategy.
UAP has previously won the “Hardware Company of the Year” award in both 2023 and 2024 from the National Fenestration Awards.
It also received the 2024 Guild of Architectural Ironmongers’ Community Award for Company Innovation.
Company leadership and integration plans
UAP CEO David Jennings will remain involved in the business following the acquisition.
Allegion stated that Jennings will support the integration process and help drive growth across the combined UK operations.
Jennings said: “Bringing together UAP and Allegion adds great value for our joint distribution and customer base. We’re broadening our high-quality portfolios and creating meaningful opportunities to innovate together.”
Allegion explained that the transition will help accelerate its delivery of regional customer solutions.
The integration will take place under the Allegion International segment.
Allegion outlines strategic rationale
Allegion Senior Vice President and President of Allegion International, Tim Eckersley, said: “This is a natural extension of Allegion’s core mechanical portfolio with highly specifiable products that will leverage our existing solutions offerings and capabilities.”
He added: “Through our go-to-market alignment, complementary channels and sales expertise, we’ll fuel additional growth for both UAP and Allegion.”
Allegion stated that the move will increase its ability to serve UK customers with a wider range of mechanical and software-based fire and security products.
The company noted that combining portfolios would allow greater channel alignment across its mechanical and electronic solutions.
UAP will continue to serve customers in the UK from its base in Manchester.
Company background and UK operations
UAP was founded in 1996 and has operated as a manufacturer and supplier of door hardware from its Manchester headquarters.
The company’s UK operations will continue under the Allegion International banner.
Allegion said UAP’s customer-focused approach, regional manufacturing, and award-winning product lines made it an appropriate addition to its UK strategy.
According to Allegion, the acquisition also supports its ambition to expand across Europe with a stronger presence in the UK fire and security hardware market.
UAP’s distribution network serves customers across the UK construction and architectural sectors.
The acquisition is part of Allegion’s wider effort to integrate mechanical and digital access technologies across its markets.
Allegion acquires UAP to expand UK fire and security offering: Summary
Allegion has acquired Manchester-based door hardware company UAP.
UAP will become part of the Allegion International segment.
The acquisition is aimed at expanding Allegion’s presence in the UK market.
UAP holds nearly 200 patents, trademarks, and registered designs.
UAP’s Armasmart range eliminates 99.98% of viruses, including COVID-19.
UAP has won awards in 2023 and 2024 for product innovation.
CEO David Jennings will stay on to support the transition.
Allegion said the deal aligns with its mechanical and software strategy.
The acquisition strengthens Allegion’s non-residential UK offering.
UAP will continue operations from Manchester under the new ownership.
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