Securitas Finalizes Divestment of Its French Airport Security Operations
Securitas Finalizes Sale of French Airport Security Business
Securitas, a global leader in security services, announced the completion of the divestment of its airport security operations in France. This strategic move was executed by transferring ownership to the local management team of the airport business, specifically to the WO Group, a company well-experienced in the French aviation sector.
The sale was officially reported on March 24, 2025, highlighting the continuous evolution within Securitas’s operations tailored to enhance performance and market adaptability. According to Magnus Ahlqvist, President and CEO of Securitas, the divestment aligns with the company's ongoing strategy to reevaluate its business structure and enhance its competitive edge.
In 2024, the airport security business in France recorded sales of approximately BSEK 1.5. However, the operating margin was reported to be significantly lower than the European average for Securitas, prompting the decision to sell this segment. Ahlqvist expressed satisfaction with the transaction, underscoring his confidence in the WO Group’s capability to further develop the business in a manner that benefits both clients and employees.
Securitas has emphasized its commitment to ensuring a smooth transition for the employees involved in the airport security operations. The local management team, now under WO Group, is expected to leverage its expertise to continue fostering the growth of the newly acquired segment.
Despite the sizable move, the transaction is projected not to have a significant impact on Securitas's financial position, as it is expected to hold no material effects on the overall balance sheet or cash flow for the parent company. This decision is part of Securitas’s broader strategic assessment aimed towards optimizing its business mix and enhancing long-term value.
The divestment marks a critical juncture for Securitas as it continues to adapt to changing market dynamics and client needs while simultaneously focusing on elevating its core operations. The company intends to keep a close watch on its performance metrics post-divestment to evaluate the effectiveness of this strategic maneuver.
In conclusion, Securitas's completed divestment of its French airport security business not only signifies a crucial step in its operational strategy but also showcases its commitment to delivering exceptional service through specialized teams. The future for the airport security sector in France appears promising under the active management of the WO Group, who are set to utilize their extensive market experience to ensure the business thrives in the competitive aviation landscape.