Santa Ana-based Allied Universal Security Services LLC, the largest private security firm in North America, has won U.S. approval for a possible $4.3 billion acquisition of a London-based security firm that would create the world’s sixth-biggest employer.
The Federal Trade Commission, on its website, granted approval to Allied if it should acquire G4S plc.
If the two firms combine, it would result in 773,000 employees, which would be just behind Amazon.com.
G4S on Nov. 3 said Allied’s offer of 210 pence, or $4.3 billion, was too low. Since then, shares of G4S (LON: GFS) have risen to 220 pence, indicating a higher bid may be forthcoming. Today, the shares gained 1% to 220 pence, giving the company a market value of US$4.5 billion.