Overview of Allied Universal Security
Allied Universal is one of the largest security companies in North America, providing a wide range of security services to commercial and government clients. Founded in 1957, Allied Universal has grown substantially over the past decades through numerous acquisitions and mergers. Today, the company employs over 200,000 security professionals and has annual revenues exceeding $8 billion.
Services Provided
Allied Universal offers comprehensive security solutions tailored to each client’s specific needs. Core services include:
– Security guards and patrols
– Alarm monitoring and response
– Secure transport of money and valuables
– Executive protection and secure journeys
– Risk assessments and security system design
– Emergency preparedness planning and training
– Background screening of employees
The company’s guards and patrol officers form the backbone of its operations. They are stationed at client sites to provide visual deterrence, monitor premises, control access points, and respond to various incidents. Allied Universal has extensive expertise in securing healthcare facilities, commercial real estate, retail stores, corporate campuses, financial institutions, and government buildings.
Industry Leadership & Innovation
Over the decades, Allied Universal has led the security industry in adopting new technologies and capabilities. Examples include:
– Deploying sophisticated surveillance, threat detection, and access control systems powered by AI and advanced analytics.
– Launching a specialized Cyber Security division focusing on managed IT security services.
– Developing automated dispatch and incident management platforms to boost efficiency.
– Acquiring one of the largest school security companies to enhance protection for students.
– Pioneering the use of remote guarding and smart sensor networks.
The company also invests heavily in training its guards and staff. It operates several regional training academies across the country that provide 150+ hours of instruction to new recruits. Ongoing training emphases include crisis response, defensive tactics, ethics and professionalism.
Growth Strategy
Allied Universal continues to pursue an aggressive growth strategy. The company averages 400+ acquisitions annually to expand its client base and enhance capabilities. It also partners with dozens of technology firms to integrate new solutions into its offerings.
Additionally, Allied Universal is expanding globally with operations launched in the United Kingdom, South America and Asia. Long term, it aims to be the most innovative and trusted security enterprise in the world. With its size and capabilities, the company is well positioned to achieve this vision.
Allied Universal’s Training and Hiring Practices
Allied Universal invests significant resources into training its security personnel. New hires complete a 40-hour orientation program covering topics like observation and reporting skills, emergency response, workplace diversity, and ethics. Guards are trained to de-escalate conflicts and use force only as a last resort.
The company also provides regular continuing education on workplace violence, harassment, cybersecurity, and other risks. Experienced personnel can pursue additional certifications to take on specialized roles.
To attract qualified candidates, Allied Universal offers competitive wages and benefits. Employees are eligible for medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance coverage. Other perks include 401(k) plans, tuition reimbursement, and discounts on products and services.
The company aims to hire team members that demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and good judgment. Candidates undergo extensive screening including interviews, background checks, drug tests, and more. The hiring process ensures that only trustworthy, capable guards join the Allied Universal team.
Allied Universal’s Use of Technology
Allied Universal utilizes advanced technologies to augment its security services. Security operations centers monitor CCTV footage and alarms to swiftly detect incidents. Drones and robots provide aerial surveillance and patrol certain sites.
Guards use smartphone apps to collect reports, access databases, and request backup. Body-worn cameras capture video evidence to document responses. Other tools include panic buttons, emergency notification systems, and GPS tracking of response vehicles.
Sophisticated access control systems enforce identity verification and manage visitor entry. AI-enabled solutions analyze risks and suspicious activity. Allied Universal partners with cybersecurity firms to harden clients’ networks and data.
Investments in technology aim to make security services more proactive, efficient, and transparent. Analytics aid planning and resource allocation. Automation assists guards so they can focus on critical tasks. Overall, integrated tech capabilities allow Allied Universal to deliver smarter, more effective protection.
Allied Universal’s philanthropy and community involvement
Allied Universal believes in giving back to communities where it operates. The company sponsors volunteer events and drives donations for worthy causes. For example, after natural disasters, Allied Universal organizes aid projects for affected areas.
The Allied Universal Cares philanthropic organization provides grants and scholarships to nonprofit partners. It has donated millions to children’s hospitals, veterans groups, homeless shelters, and other charities over the years.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Allied Universal took initiatives like donating protective gear to healthcare workers. It also delivered food and supplies to community members in need.
Employees are encouraged to pursue volunteer work and community enrichment on their own time as well. Overall, Allied Universal aims to be a force for good and make a positive impact beyond its core services.
