US security group IPC International has gained its first foothold in the UK by buying Gateshead-based St James Security.
IPC, which has a turnover of $200m, provides manned security for more than 400 shopping malls across the US.
With a number of its clients looking to expand into Europe, IPC identified St James' Security as a way of getting into the UK and European marketplace.
St James Security Ltd was established in 1997 under the direction of Peter Durham.
It provides security for high street retailers, property investors, and Capital Shopping Centres, which owns and operates the GatesheadMetroCentre. The buy-out allows St James to invest in technology and expansion.
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