Ranger expands into South West with Universal Fire and Security acquisition

Ranger expands into South West

Ranger Fire and Security has acquired Plymouth-based Universal Fire and Security, marking its entry into the South West of England and adding a thirteenth business to its growing fire and security services network across the UK and Ireland.

The company confirmed that Universal will continue to trade under its existing name, with its current leadership team remaining in place.

Ranger said the move is intended to create a one-stop solution for customers in Devon and Cornwall, while linking Universal closely with other businesses in the group.

According to the company, the acquisition forms part of a strategy to build a national provider that combines strong regional expertise with shared operational standards.

The deal has been completed with the backing of Hyperion Equity Partners, which supports Ranger’s buy-and-build programme across the UK and Ireland.

Universal Fire and Security service offering

Universal Fire and Security was founded in 2001 by Managing Director Mark Gibson, initially focusing on security systems before expanding into fire protection services across Devon and Cornwall.

The company now provides intruder detection systems, CCTV, fire alarms, automatic opening vent systems, access control systems and emergency lighting.

Its portfolio also covers call systems, fire extinguishers, maintenance and monitoring, and automatic gates and barriers for customers across the region.

Universal’s work is centred on maintenance and maintenance-related services, which account for more than 90% of its business, with the remainder made up of new installations.

Ranger stated that Universal has built a loyal customer base over more than two decades by focusing on technical expertise and service quality.

Mark Gibson, Founder and Managing Director of Universal Fire and Security, said: “At Universal we pride ourselves on our repeat business and loyal customer base which is a testament to the high-quality fire and security services we deliver across the South West.

“A major pull for joining the Ranger Group is being able to benefit from the Group’s operational expertise, helping us ensure we are providing the most high-quality service possible, while also enabling us to expand our reach across not only the South West region, but beyond into other parts of the country.”

Leadership continuity and regional focus

Ranger confirmed that Universal’s existing leadership team will remain in place and will work closely with other businesses in the group.

The company said Universal will lead its operations in Devon and Cornwall, providing a regional hub for services across the South West.

Mark Bridges, CEO of Ranger Fire and Security, said: “We are honoured to be chosen by Mark [Gibson] and team in a highly competitive process to be his partner moving forward and opening the next chapter as part of the Ranger Group.”

Ranger added that Gibson and fellow director Chris have been key to the company’s assessment of the deal.

The firm said they have shown a clear ambition to grow Universal both organically and through further acquisition.

According to Ranger, the leadership team’s approach and customer-focused culture align with its wider strategy for building a network of trusted regional specialists under a single group structure.

Acquisitions shaping UK and Ireland network

Ranger stated that the purchase of Universal Fire and Security is its thirteenth acquisition since the group launched in early 2024.

The company said it is also the sixth acquisition completed this year.

Universal’s addition follows earlier deals for B-Safe Group and Aqua Fire Prevention in Ireland and IRN Security in Scotland.

Ranger explained that these acquisitions are intended to build coverage across key regions, combining local knowledge with centralised operational and technological support.

By integrating Universal into the group, Ranger aims to create new opportunities for cross-selling and collaboration across the South West and the wider network.

The company said its goal is to develop a fire and security services provider that can support customers at both regional and national level through a consistent service model.

Operational impact for South West customers

Ranger highlighted that Universal’s focus on maintenance and maintenance-related services fits with its emphasis on long-term customer relationships.

The company said customers in Devon and Cornwall will have access to a broader pool of technical support as Universal links into the wider Ranger network.

According to Ranger, the acquisition is expected to create a single point of contact for organisations that require both fire protection and security services across multiple sites.

The group stated that Universal will benefit from shared systems and processes, including operational and technological support from other Ranger businesses.

Ranger added that the combined offer is aimed at helping customers manage fire alarms, security systems and related services more efficiently across their estates.

Operational relevance of Ranger’s Universal acquisition

The acquisition of Universal Fire and Security gives organisations in Devon and Cornwall access to a provider that can deliver fire alarms, intruder systems, CCTV and related services under one regional brand.

Facility managers in commercial, industrial and public-sector buildings can work with a company that concentrates most of its activity on maintenance and maintenance-related services, which Ranger said account for more than 90% of Universal’s business.

For procurement officers responsible for fire and security contracts, the deal means Universal can draw on the wider Ranger network while retaining local leadership and an established customer base.

System installers, fire-protection contractors and electrical contractors may see changes in how projects are specified and supported, as Universal connects its service offering with other Ranger businesses in the UK and Ireland.

Cross-regional operators with sites in Scotland, Ireland and the South West can engage with brands that already exist within the Ranger group, including B-Safe Group, Aqua Fire Prevention and IRN Security, when planning multi-site fire and security strategies.