Blackford Capital acquires IES in second add-on for Security Fire Solutions platform

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich.—Blackford Capital has acquired Industrial Electronic Systems Inc. (IES), marking the second add-on acquisition for its Security Fire Solutions (SFS) platform.

Founded in 1982 and headquartered in the greater Sacramento area, IES provides fire alarm, security and life-safety solutions to commercial, institutional and government customers across the western United States. The company specializes in engineered fire alarm and low-voltage systems integration.

The acquisition follows Blackford Capital's purchase of Security Fire Systems in December 2024 and the addition of Lakeview Security, Fire & Communication in September 2025. The combined platform will continue operating under the SFS brand and be led by CEO Dan Stachel. 

"IES is another fine example of our disciplined buy-and-build strategy in action," said Blackford Capital Founder and Managing Director Martin Stein. "We seek exceptional founder-led businesses and help them grow by preserving the strengths that made them successful while providing the resources and operational expertise to reliably and predictably scale."

IES Founder and President Lutfi Abed said joining the platform will help accelerate the company's growth while creating new opportunities for employees and customers.

"IES has always been built around technical excellence, long-term customer relationships and a commitment to delivering complex life-safety systems the right way," Abed said. "Blackford's platform offers an opportunity to accelerate our growth, and we are excited about the opportunities it presents for our employees and customers." 

Stachel said the acquisition brings together organizations with complementary strengths and shared values. 

"Great companies are built by exceptional people and today marks an important milestone in our journey," Stachel said. "We are thrilled to welcome the IES team to SFS, a combination that offers complementary strengths, shared values and a commitment to excellence."