Investment news

Partners Group, the global private markets manager, and Universal Services of America announced today that Partners Group has made a new equity investment on behalf of its clients into Universal to support current and future growth initiatives. Universal, which was named by Inc. Magazine as the #1 job creator in America in 2012 and one of the fastest growing companies in the country, is the 5th largest security services company in the US.

Universal employs over 27’000 professionals across the US and provides a diverse mix of security services, ranging from traditional manned guard services, to cutting-edge technology systems, to fire/life safety emergency preparation services. The company also provides janitorial services, with a specialization in “green” cleaning.

Partners Group and the Universal management team have had a relationship for several years and Partners Group has previously helped to fund the company’s expansion into new geographies.

David Layton, Managing Director of Partners Group in New York, said, “Over the past few years, Universal has grown from a regional provider of security services into an esteemed, national player without sacrificing any of its core values or attention to customer service. We are excited to continue backing Brian Cescolini and Steve Jones during this next phase of Universal’s growth and to assist in their future acquisitions and organic growth initiatives.”

Alfred Gantner, Executive Chairman and Co-founder of Partners Group, commented, “Universal represents an ideal addition for our direct investment programs with its first rate management team, high-growth performance, and an identified set of strategic initiatives that can be supported by Partners Group’s vast network of financial and strategic resources.”

Steve Jones, CEO of Universal, said, “This next phase of our partnership with Partners Group allows the company to accelerate its growth plan with new capital and resources to execute our buy and build strategy in the security industry. This is a highly fragmented market that has been consolidating over the last decade, and with our new partnership, Universal is now in a position to continue benefiting from this trend. We have completed over 20 acquisitions in the past three years and are looking forward to this next phase of growth alongside Partners Group, where we will remain as dedicated as ever to providing outstanding service to our clients.”