CLEVELAND and DALLAS, April 12, 2022 | Align Capital Partners (“ACP”) announced today the closing of two strategic add-ons for Protegis Fire & Safety (the “Company”). In subsequent transactions, the Company acquired Florida-based Metro Fire Protection Services, Inc. (“Metro”) in February 2022 and Ohio-based PDS Systems, LLC (“PDS”) in April 2022. When combined with Protegis’ existing branches in Tampa and throughout Ohio, these acquisitions further expand the Company’s coverage in key markets.
Founded in 1983, Metro provides installation, inspection and repair services to commercial customers in a variety of end markets. Co-owner Doug Crawford will continue to lead Metro as a member of the Protegis team. “My partners and I enthusiastically embrace Protegis as our next-phase growth partner after we were exposed to their team culture and shared core values,” said Crawford in a statement.
Peter van Niekerk, CEO of Protegis, added, “We are excited to work with Doug and his team to support their growth and enhance customer relationships. I am confident that as part of the Protegis platform, Metro will continue to thrive and build upon its leadership position in the Florida fire protection market.”
Since its founding in 1994 by Phil Sisia, PDS has been dedicated to being a one-stop-shop for its customers’ fire alarm and access control systems. PDS specializes in the design of fire and smoke detection alarm systems, with NICET certified staff providing integration solutions for an impressive roster of Columbus customers. “My sons Philip Jr. and Tyler will continue to play an important role in the joint business going forward. This partnership creates immediate benefits for our customers, while providing exciting growth and development opportunities for our entire team of valued employees,” Sisia remarked.
Steve DeJohn, COO of Protegis, said, “We are thrilled to join forces with PDS and work with Philip Jr. and the team in a combined operation with tremendous capability and strong growth prospects. This is a big step forward for Protegis’ leadership in the Columbus market.”
ACP’s initial investment in the Protegis platform came via the acquisition of ISA in 2017. Since then, the Company has closed seven add-ons inclusive of Metro and PDS. Managing Partner Steve Dyke, Senior Operating Partner Dave Tiley, Partner Jack Parks and Associate Aaron Lewis worked on the transaction. Metro Fire was advised on the transaction by Cross Keys Capital.