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Chubb Fire & Security
Chubb Fire & Security
from Wikipedia

Chubb Fire & Security is a British multinational company that provides property protection and life safety equipment and services, including fire protection and security systems. It has been a subsidiary of APi Group Corporation since January 2022.[1]

Key Information

History

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Former office in Sunbury-on-Thames

The company was founded by Charles and Jeremiah Chubb, who patented their Chubb detector lock in 1818. The company won a government competition for a lock which could not be opened other than by its own key.[2]

In 1835, the company produced its first Chubb safe at its factory in Wolverhampton, UK and, in the second half of the 19th century, the company expanded into the United States, and produced a time lock that was fitted to bank vaults across the country.[3] In the 1800s, Chubb gained some important customers such as the Duke of Wellington and the Bank of England.[4]

Over the next one hundred years, the company turned out more than 2.5m locks.[3] By the 1940s, Chubb expanded its operations in 17 countries. From being a single company manufacturing specialized security products it turned into a broad-based group of companies covering not only many aspects of security but fire protection as well.[5]

The company went on to acquire a number of rival firms including Chatwood-Milner Ltd. (1958), Burgot Alarms Ltd and Rely-a-Bell (1962), Read and Campbell Limited (1964), Josiah Parkes and Sons Ltd. (1965) and The Pyrene Company Limited (1967).[6] It was bought by Racal Electronics in August 1984, from which it was demerged in September 1992, before being acquired by Williams Holdings in February 1997.[7] as the latter company sought to build a security-focused conglomerate. Chubb was again demerged in July 2000.[3]

Service Engineer van in 2021

In August 2000, Chubb sold Chubb Locks, its lock and safe making unit, to Assa Abloy, and concentrated on security systems such as door access and CCTV systems.[8] In May 2002, Chubb held intensive acquisitions talks with Sweden-based Securitas AB, the world's biggest security services business. After 18 months of negotiations,[9] the talks were called off on the grounds that the deal would not be "financially attractive" to either company's shareholders.[10]

In Australia, Chubb Security bought MSS Security in 1996,[11] but then sold it to SIS Limited in 2008.[12][13]

Hot air balloon in the shape of a Chubb fire extinguisher at the 2008 Kemble Air Show

In April 2003, Chubb was acquired for £622m by United Technologies Corporation.[14] In March 2007, UTC bought Initial Fire and Security, the security arm of Rentokil Initial and proceeded to merge the business and its assets with Chubb in UTC Climate, Controls & Security. In December 2013, Chubb's Australian cash in transit business was sold to Prosegur.[15]

In 2020, Chubb was spun off with the rest of UTC Climate, Controls & Security into a separate company, Carrier Global.

On 3 January 2022 it was announced that Carrier Global had sold the business to APi Group Corporation for US$ 3.1 billion.[1]

Brands

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  • Ajax Brandbeveiliging
  • Chubb Delta Security Solutions
  • Chubb Sicli (Secours Immédiat Contre L’Incendie)
  • Chubb Somati Systems
  • Counterforce by SMC
  • SMC (Security Monitoring Centre)
  • Vipond Fire Protection
  • VitalCALL

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Chubb Fire & Security is a global provider of integrated fire safety and security solutions, founded in 1818 by brothers Charles and Jeremiah Chubb in the as a manufacturer of secure locks, and today operates as a of Group Corporation, delivering end-to-end services including design, installation, maintenance, and monitoring to protect people, property, and assets across commercial, industrial, and residential sectors. Headquartered in , , , , the company has evolved from its origins in mechanical devices—such as the patented Detector Lock in and a burglar-resistant in 1835—into a comprehensive and firm, expanding into overseas by 1945 and electronic systems through acquisitions like Burgot Alarms and Rely-a-Bell in 1962. Key milestones include the development of time lock mechanisms for vaults in the , the takeover of fire extinguisher manufacturer in 1967, a merger with Kidde Thorn in 1997 that broadened its European footprint, acquisition by Corporation in 2003, and its purchase by APi Group in 2022, enabling a network of local operational hubs in 17 countries to offer technology-enabled solutions like advanced extinguishers and monitoring systems.

Overview

Founding and Early Development

Chubb Fire & Security originated in when brothers and Chubb founded a partnership in Portsea, , specializing in the manufacture of high-security locks and safes to meet growing demands for protection against theft and unauthorized access. , with prior experience as a ship's ironmonger, handled sales and operations, while focused on and production, establishing the firm's foundational emphasis on precision engineering and reliability. A pivotal achievement came that same year when Jeremiah patented the "Chubb detector lock," an innovative lever tumbler design incorporating a detector mechanism that jammed the lock upon detecting tampering or incorrect key use, thus revolutionizing secure locking technology by deterring burglars and alerting owners. This invention not only won a competition offering 100 guineas for an unpickable lock but also positioned Chubb as a leader in security, with the detector lock remaining unpicked for over 30 years until a public challenge at the 1851 in . In the early , the company expanded operations, opening a sales office in around to broaden market reach amid rising demand from financial institutions and . Growth accelerated through contracts for secure storage solutions, including early supplies to high-profile clients like the Duke of Wellington and, by the 1830s, the , which adopted for its vaults. The initial revolved around services—such as installation, repair, and customization—alongside production of locks and safes, prioritizing durability and anti-theft features to build a reputation for trusted .

Current Ownership and Leadership

Chubb Fire & Security is a wholly owned subsidiary of APi Group Corporation, following its acquisition from Carrier Global Corporation in January 2022 for an enterprise value of $3.1 billion, comprising $2.9 billion in cash and approximately $200 million in assumed liabilities and other adjustments. This transaction positioned Chubb within APi Group's safety and specialty services segment, enhancing the parent's focus on integrated life safety solutions. The company maintains its headquarters in , , , and employs over 13,000 people globally as of the acquisition, with recent estimates indicating a of approximately 14,000 in 2025. Under APi Group's ownership, Chubb has integrated operational synergies that bolster its service-oriented model, with more than 50% of now derived from recurring, regulation-driven services such as and monitoring contracts. Leadership is headed by Chief Executive Officer Andrew White, who joined in May 2022 and continues to lead as of 2025, overseeing global strategy and integration efforts. Key regional executives include KT Yiu, for , who was promoted to the role in 2023 after over 30 years with the company, managing expansion in high-growth markets. Following internal restructuring, European operations are supported by figures such as Craig Forbes, for (including the and ), ensuring financial oversight across the region.

History

Origins in Lockmaking (1818–1900)

The origins of Chubb Fire & Security trace back to the locksmithing innovations of brothers Charles and Jeremiah Chubb during the early 19th century, a period marked by the Industrial Revolution's surge in commercial activity, banking expansion, and rising urban crime rates that heightened the need for reliable secure storage solutions. Amid this economic transformation, which saw increased trade and the proliferation of financial institutions across Britain and its colonies, demand for advanced locks grew substantially to protect valuables in an era of mechanized production and wealth accumulation. The Chubbs capitalized on this context by establishing their business in 1818, initially as ironmongers before pivoting to specialized lockmaking that addressed the vulnerabilities of contemporary security devices. Central to the company's early success was the Detector Lock, patented by Jeremiah Chubb in 1818 following a competition offering 100 guineas for an unpickable design. This incorporated a unique detector mechanism: a sensitive that engaged only with the precise key configuration, but if tampered with using picks, false keys, or any incorrect insertion, it would trigger a ward to jam the bolt, rendering the lock inoperable and alerting users to unauthorized attempts. This feature not only thwarted and picking but also provided a tamper-evident safeguard, setting a new standard for mechanical security that prevented surreptitious entry without detection. Improvements patented by Chubb in refined the design, eliminating the need for a separate regulating key to reset the mechanism, further enhancing its practicality for widespread adoption. By the 1820s, the Chubbs had relocated their operations to , the epicenter of Britain's lockmaking industry, where they established a workshop on Temple Street that evolved into a major manufacturing hub, employing hundreds by the late century. This strategic move supported rapid production scaling, with the company securing a royal warrant in 1823 to supply locks to King George IV and becoming the primary provider for the and . International expansion followed in the mid-19th century, with exports of locks and safes reaching and the ; notable shipments included secure storage for the Victoria Railway Company in , , by 1859, reflecting growing demand in colonial markets amid imperial trade growth. In the 1880s, Chubb advanced its product line by intensifying production of fire-resistant safes at expanded facilities, building on earlier patents like Charles Chubb's 1838 design featuring iron plate linings and fire-retardant plaster fillings to shield contents from intense heat. These safes, combined with burglar-resistant models patented in 1835, were manufactured at a new Wolverhampton factory completed in 1889, capable of accommodating 350 workers and dedicated safe-making departments. The company's expertise secured high-profile installations, such as locks for the Bank of England—where two Detector Locks were supplied in the 1820s for six guineas each—and strongrooms for institutions like Apsley House, home of the Duke of Wellington, underscoring Chubb's role in protecting national treasures and financial assets during a time of industrial prosperity.

Diversification into Fire and Security (1901–2000)

Following the success of its lockmaking operations in the late , Chubb began diversifying its portfolio in the mid-20th century to address growing demands for comprehensive property protection. In 1945, the company entered the sector and initiated overseas expansion, marking a pivotal shift from mechanical devices to broader safety solutions. This move laid the groundwork for integrating with traditional offerings, responding to post-war industrialization and trends that heightened risks to commercial and residential properties. A key milestone in this diversification came through strategic acquisitions that broadened Chubb's product lines. In 1958, Chubb acquired Chatwood-Milner Ltd., a prominent safe manufacturer, which enhanced its capabilities in secure storage solutions and complemented existing lock technologies. This was followed by the 1964 purchase of Read & Campbell Ltd., specialists in fire extinguishers, allowing Chubb to incorporate early chemical-based suppression tools into its repertoire. By 1967, the acquisition of The Company Limited further expanded offerings to include advanced , such as chemical extinguishers pioneered by Pyrene for industrial applications, solidifying Chubb's position in equipment. These moves not only diversified revenue streams but also enabled the development of complementary products like soda-acid extinguishers, which Chubb refined for reliability in diverse environments. Post-World War II, Chubb accelerated its entry into electronic , capitalizing on technological advancements in detection systems. In 1962, the company acquired Burgot Alarms Ltd. and Rely-a-Bell, two established firms in burglar alarm technology, leading to the launch of Chubb Alarms—the first electronic division. This initiative focused on intruder detection for commercial and residential use, integrating alarms with physical locks to create layered protection. By the 1970s, these efforts culminated in the formation of Chubb Fire Ltd. in 1971, which unified fire and operations under one entity, emphasizing integrated systems that combined suppression, alarms, and monitoring for enhanced efficacy. Chubb's global footprint grew significantly during this era, with operations extending to multiple countries by the late 1940s, supporting the export of diversified products to over 17 markets. In the 1980s, the company intensified focus on integrated security systems tailored for commercial buildings, incorporating electronic monitoring and fire detection into cohesive networks, as seen in expansions under Racal-Chubb Products Ltd. following the 1984 acquisition by Racal Electronics. This period's innovations, including advanced alarm integrations, positioned Chubb as a leader in holistic risk management, with product lines serving industries from manufacturing to hospitality. In 1997, Williams Holdings acquired Chubb Security, integrating it with existing holdings including Kidde and Thorn Fire Protection (rebranded as Kidde Thorn), which broadened its European footprint through merged fire and security operations. In 2000, the group de-merged, with Chubb Security becoming Chubb plc focused on fire and security installation and service, while Kidde became a separate fire protection entity.

Corporate Acquisitions and Restructuring (2001–Present)

In 2003, acquired Chubb plc for £622 million, marking a significant consolidation in the global fire and security sector. This transaction integrated Chubb into UTC's Climate, Controls & Security division, enhancing the company's capabilities in electronic security and fire protection products and services. The acquisition, valued at approximately $1 billion, positioned Chubb as a key component of UTC's broader portfolio in building technologies. In 2007, UTC further expanded Chubb's operations by purchasing Initial Fire and Security, the security arm of , for $1.16 billion. This acquisition integrated Initial's UK-based monitoring and response services into Chubb's business, broadening its service offerings in electronic and across . The move strengthened Chubb's market presence in integrated solutions, including monitoring and rapid response capabilities. As part of UTC's corporate restructuring in 2020, Chubb was spun off to Corporation following the separation of UTC's commercial businesses, including the merger of its aerospace operations with . This transition positioned Chubb within Carrier's global portfolio of intelligent climate and energy solutions. In July 2021, Carrier announced an agreement to sell Chubb to Group Corporation for an enterprise value of $3.1 billion, a deal that closed on January 3, 2022, transferring ownership and enabling to establish itself as a leading provider of life safety services. Following the 2022 acquisition, Group initiated integration efforts to capture synergies from combining Chubb's operations with its existing services. By November 2023, APi updated its progress, increasing the run-rate target by 25% to $125 million, achieved through cost savings such as footprint optimization and pricing adjustments, alongside growth initiatives like pruning low-value contracts and enhancing . These efforts, with total spending capped at $125 million and a projected 1:1 or better cost-benefit , continued into 2024, realizing over $90 million of the target by year-end. The integration is expected to conclude by the end of 2025, supporting APi's financial position with a to Adjusted EBITDA below 2.5x as of end-2023. In 2024, Chubb opened a new office in to provide integrated electronic security solutions, further expanding its presence.

Products and Services

Fire Detection and Suppression Systems

Chubb Fire & Security offers a comprehensive range of fire detection systems designed to identify fires in their early stages across diverse environments, including commercial, industrial, and residential settings. These systems include optical smoke detectors utilizing advanced Optica sensing technology for detecting visible smoke particles, heat detectors that monitor temperature rises to identify rapidly spreading fires, and multi-sensor detectors such as the F850499N model, which combine smoke and heat sensing in a single unit for enhanced reliability and reduced false alarms. Compliance with international standards is a core feature, with products certified to EN54-7 for smoke detectors in European markets and aligned with NFPA 72 requirements for fire alarm and signaling systems in North America, ensuring reliable performance and regulatory adherence. The company's suppression solutions address a variety of fire risks by deploying agents that extinguish flames without causing secondary damage, particularly in sensitive areas like data centers and heritage buildings. Gaseous systems, including CO2 systems and clean agents such as FM-200 (HFC-227ea), Argonite, and Novec 1230, are automatically triggered by integrated detection mechanisms to flood enclosed spaces, effectively suppressing electrical and electronic equipment fires in industrial and commercial facilities while leaving no residue. Note that agents like FM-200 and Novec 1230 are subject to global phase-downs as of due to environmental concerns, with alternatives recommended for new systems. Water mist systems deliver high-pressure fine droplets to cool and smother fires with minimal water usage, ideal for hotels and data centers, whereas -based systems, such as those using aqueous foam concentrates, form a blanket over flammable liquids to prevent re-ignition in and industrial sites. These solutions are engineered to meet global codes, including BS EN 15004 for gaseous systems and NFPA 2001 for clean agent applications. Portable and fixed fire extinguishers form a foundational element of Chubb's offerings, with the company tracing its involvement in extinguisher production back to the diversification into in the mid-20th century, following expansion in and acquisitions in the , building on the historical evolution from soda-acid models—first patented in the and widely used for Class A fires through chemical reactions generating pressurized —to contemporary ABC powder types that utilize monoammonium phosphate for versatile suppression of ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids, and energized electrical equipment. Fixed extinguishers are integrated into suppression networks for targeted protection in high-risk zones, while portable units are available in various sizes and pressures to suit specific needs, all compliant with standards like BS EN 3 for construction and performance. Chubb's fire detection and suppression technologies emphasize seamless integration with building management systems (BMS) to enable automated responses, such as activating alarms, shutting down HVAC systems, or initiating evacuations upon detection, thereby enhancing overall safety and . This connectivity ensures systems operate in harmony with broader facility controls, with designs verified against international codes like the International Building Code (IBC) and local equivalents to guarantee operational efficacy and legal compliance across global installations.

Electronic Security and Monitoring Solutions

Chubb Fire & Security provides a range of intrusion detection systems designed to safeguard residential, commercial, and properties against unauthorized entry and threats. These systems incorporate advanced sensors, such as motion detectors and door/window contacts, to identify potential breaches in real time. For perimeter protection, Chubb offers solutions that integrate electric fencing, beams, and sensors to secure boundaries effectively, particularly for large-scale sites like industrial facilities and . CCTV cameras are often combined with these elements to provide visual confirmation of alarms, enabling proactive deterrence through visible . All components are engineered for seamless integration, ensuring reliable performance across diverse environments. Access control solutions from Chubb enhance security by regulating entry to authorized individuals only, utilizing technologies like biometric scanners for fingerprint or facial recognition, proximity card readers, and keyless mobile credentialing via smartphones. These systems support card-based access with smart cards or key fobs for everyday use in offices and retail spaces, while keyless options allow for PIN codes or app-based unlocking to minimize physical keys. Integration with video verification is a core feature, where entry attempts trigger live camera feeds for remote authentication, reducing false positives and improving compliance in high-security settings such as data centers and healthcare facilities. Chubb's modular platforms scale from single-door setups to enterprise-wide networks, often linked to broader security ecosystems for comprehensive management. Monitoring services operate through Chubb's global network of more than 20 central stations, delivering 24/7 surveillance with real-time alerts dispatched to operators who verify incidents via integrated video feeds. Upon detection, trained personnel coordinate rapid responses, including notifying on-site keyholders, dispatching security teams, or alerting emergency services as needed, all backed by redundant communication lines for uninterrupted service. Remote management is facilitated through the Chubb visiON+ platform, which includes web portals and mobile apps allowing users to receive instant notifications, view live status updates, and control systems from anywhere. Advanced analytics further refine threat detection by analyzing video footage for anomalies like loitering or unauthorized movements, while ensuring compliance with standards such as BS EN 50131 for intruder alarm systems. These features can briefly integrate with fire alarm systems for holistic site protection.

Global Operations

Geographic Reach and Key Markets

Chubb Fire & Security maintains a global footprint with operations in 17 countries, spanning , , , and the , establishing strongholds particularly in the , , and . The company's presence is supported by local operational hubs and country-specific entities that ensure compliance with regional regulations and facilitate tailored service delivery. Key markets for Chubb include commercial real estate, industrial sectors, and public infrastructure, where the company provides specialized , suppression, and solutions adapted to sector-specific needs. In the region, operations emphasize high-rise systems to meet stringent local building codes and challenges prevalent in markets like and . In , focus areas align with industrial and demands in countries such as , , and the , while North American activities, centered in , address similar commercial and requirements. Local subsidiaries, including Chubb Asia Pacific and Chubb , oversee regional strategies and support an extensive network of over 200 branches dedicated to installation, , and monitoring services worldwide. Recent financial reports indicate revenue distribution with approximately 60% derived from , 30% from , and 10% from other regions as of , reflecting the company's balanced international exposure. This structure enables Chubb to adapt offerings to diverse regulatory environments, such as varying standards in the and seismic considerations in infrastructure projects.

Workforce and Infrastructure

Chubb Fire & Security employs over 12,000 highly specialized staff worldwide as of 2025, spanning roles in , system installation, and field services to support the design, deployment, and maintenance of and solutions. These positions emphasize technical expertise, with a focus on certified technicians who undergo rigorous assessments to ensure compliance with industry standards, such as the BAFE Registered Technicians Scheme and NSI certifications in the UK for maintenance and installation. The company invests in comprehensive training programs to build and sustain this workforce, including an 18-week fully funded initiative that requires no prior experience and leads to Level 3 BTEC qualifications in fire and security systems. These efforts align with ISO 9001:2015 standards, which Chubb maintains across its operations to guarantee consistent service delivery and competency. Additionally, specialized courses cover , alarm systems, and safety protocols, often delivered through and hands-on sessions to meet evolving regulatory requirements. Chubb's infrastructure supports global operations with a network of over 200 branches, more than 20 monitoring centers, and dedicated service facilities in key regions like the and , facilitating rapid response and localized expertise. activities are integrated into these sites to drive in suppression and electronic technologies. The company demonstrates a strong commitment to , fostering an environment where employees from varied backgrounds contribute to a sense of belonging, alongside unyielding and protocols that include risk assessments and standards. Following the 2022 acquisition by APi Group, these initiatives have been enhanced, promoting greater talent mobility and professional development opportunities across integrated segments.

Brands and Subsidiaries

Primary Brands

Chubb Fire & Security maintains a portfolio of primary brands that specialize in targeted aspects of fire protection and security solutions, enabling customized services across diverse markets. These brands leverage the company's global expertise to address specific needs in fire suppression, integrated security, personal emergency response, and portable fire safety equipment. Chubb Sicli serves as the European brand focused on fire suppression systems, particularly in Switzerland where it has operated since 1923. It specializes in advanced fire detection and suppression technologies suitable for sensitive environments, such as research facilities and medical centers, where gaseous agents are employed to minimize damage to valuable assets. For instance, Chubb Sicli installed comprehensive fire detection systems in the AGORA Cancer Research Centre, ensuring rapid response without residue from suppression agents. Chubb Delta Security Solutions emphasizes integrated security systems, including , intrusion detection, and video surveillance, tailored for commercial and industrial sites. With over 50 years of experience in (founded in 1973), it configures bespoke solutions to mitigate site-specific risks, supported by 24/7 monitoring from global centers. This brand positions Chubb in key European markets by combining electronic security with maintenance and audit services for enhanced protection. Chubb VitalCALL provides personal emergency response systems designed for healthcare and , offering 24/7 monitoring to support . Key features include waterproof pendants with GPS tracking, fall detection, and covered ambulance call-outs, ideal for individuals with disabilities, , or those in retirement facilities. Operating primarily in and , it has supported over 200,000 users with accredited, Australian-based response centers. Other primary brands include SMC and (by SMC), which focus on security monitoring and rapid response services, maintaining networks for alarm verification and emergency dispatch, often integrated with Chubb's broader portfolio for specialized protection in North American markets.

Acquired Entities and Integrations

Chubb's acquisition of Chatwood-Milner Ltd. in marked an early expansion in secure storage solutions, incorporating the company's expertise in high-security safes and vaults into Chubb's existing lineup of locks and systems. This integration allowed Chubb to diversify its offerings beyond mechanical locks, combining Chatwood-Milner's engineering capabilities with Chubb's distribution network to strengthen its position in the market. In 1967, Chubb acquired The Pyrene Company Limited, a prominent producer of fire extinguishers and suppression equipment, which broadened its portfolio and introduced portable technologies. The purchase facilitated the consolidation of Pyrene's operations under Chubb, culminating in the formation of Chubb Fire Security Ltd. in 1971, which unified branding and streamlined production for products. The 2007 acquisition of Fire and Security by United Technologies Corporation (UTC), Chubb's parent at the time, enhanced monitoring and response services across by merging Initial's established network into Chubb's infrastructure. This integration eliminated separate branding for , allowing Chubb to expand its electronic monitoring capabilities and service coverage without fragmented operations. In 2015, Chubb acquired Digi Security Ltd., a specialist in IP-based security solutions, which bolstered its electronic systems portfolio with advanced video and technologies primarily in the UK and European markets. The merger integrated Digi's expertise into Chubb's broader services, enabling seamless enhancements to integrated system deployments. Following Group's 2022 acquisition of Chubb from Corporation, synergies have been pursued through operational integrations of Carrier-era assets, including opportunities across complementary fire and security services to drive revenue growth. These efforts emphasize cultural alignment and cost efficiencies, transforming Chubb into a key component of APi's global life safety platform while leveraging shared infrastructure for enhanced service delivery. In 2023, Chubb completed the integration of Vipond Fire Protection Ltd., a UK-based specialist in , further strengthening its capabilities in gaseous and water mist suppression technologies for commercial and industrial applications.

References

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