Securicor is to strengthen its security focus by acquiring Dutch security company Randon Beveiliging Beheer from Randstad Holding and by selling its UK recruitment company, Securicor Recruitment Services, to Randstad – an international recruitment company. It will also pay Randstad Euro 25.5m (£16.2m) and these transactions will be on a debt free basis.

Nick Buckles, chief executive of Securicor Security, commented: "Randon will benefit from the introduction of Securicor’s systems and processes. We will continue to develop its business and use Randon’s market position to expand our aviation security business into the Netherlands. We are delighted that Randon’s experienced management team will be staying with the business."

Randon has a 15% share of the manned security market in the Netherlands and approximately 80% of its turnover is derived from the provision of commercial guarding services in the corporate, transport, media, telecoms, Government and event management sectors. The company also provides monitoring and response services, representing 15% of its turnover and the remainder of its services are in the area of public safety and public order outsourcing.

Chief executive of Securicor, Roger Wiggs, said: "This acquisition demonstrates our long-term commitment to the security sector and represents a further step towards our goal of being one of the top three global security solutions companies."

Randon employs 4,000 people and has a turnover of £72.4 million (2000) while Securicor Recruitment Services has a turnover of £72.3m (2000).

Jessica Jarlvi

www.securicor.co.uk