SimpliSafe, a renowned name in the smart home security market, has announced that it has reached an agreement to be acquired by GTCR. The deal will see GTCR purchase the company from its current majority owner, Hellman & Friedman. As part of the transition, Christian Cerda will continue to lead SimpliSafe as Chief Executive Officer, while founders Chad and Eleanor Laurans will remain involved as significant investors and members of the board of directors.
Founded in 2006, SimpliSafe made its mark by pioneering the do-it-yourself home security model, allowing customers to install their own systems without the need for professional technicians. This approach, combined with flexible 24/7 professional monitoring services that do not require long-term contracts, helped the company stand out in an industry traditionally dominated by complex installations and lengthy service agreements. Over the years, SimpliSafe has grown to become the third largest residential security provider in the United States, serving millions of customers across both the U.S. and the U.K.
The company’s product line has evolved far beyond basic alarm systems. Today, SimpliSafe offers a comprehensive range of whole-home security solutions, including advanced proactive monitoring and its AI-powered Active Guard Outdoor Protection technology, designed to help prevent crimes before they occur. These innovations reflect the company’s ongoing commitment to combining ease of use with cutting-edge technology to protect homes and families.
With GTCR’s backing, SimpliSafe plans to accelerate its investment in new products, services, and technologies. The partnership will focus on expanding the company’s reach, enhancing its security offerings, and maintaining the high level of customer service that has been a cornerstone of its success. GTCR has a long history of investing in the security alarm industry, having previously supported both residential and commercial security companies, including SecurityLink, Protection1, HSM, and Everon. This experience positions GTCR to help SimpliSafe scale its operations and pursue new opportunities in a rapidly evolving market.
The acquisition marks a significant milestone for SimpliSafe, signaling the start of a new chapter in its mission to keep every home secure. By combining its innovative approach to home protection with GTCR’s resources and industry expertise, the company is aiming to reach more households, introduce more advanced security solutions, and continue shaping the future of home safety.
Advisors: J.P. Morgan Securities and Raymond James served as financial advisors to SimpliSafe. Goodwin Procter served as legal counsel to SimpliSafe and Chad and Eleanor Laurans. Kirkland & Ellis provided legal counsel to GTCR. Simpson Thacher & Bartlett provided legal counsel to Hellman & Friedman.
KEY QUOTES:
“From day one, SimpliSafe set out to transform the home security industry with a mission to keep every home secure, and today millions of people trust us to protect them and their loved ones 24/7. Over the past seven years, we have had the privilege of partnering with H&F to build upon our strong foundation and shape the future of the industry. Looking ahead, I am excited to partner with GTCR, Chad, and Eleanor to deliver even more advanced security to our customers and keep more people safe than ever before.”
Christian Cerda, Chief Executive Officer of SimpliSafe
“I’m so proud of what the SimpliSafe team has achieved – challenging the status quo in home security and bringing protection to millions of homes. But I’m even more excited about what’s ahead. With many homes still unprotected, our mission is far from complete. Together with Christian and GTCR, in this next chapter we will expand SimpliSafe’s reach and carry our legacy of innovation forward.”
Chad Laurans, SimpliSafe Founder and Chairman of the Board
“We are excited to partner with the talented team at SimpliSafe and continue to build on their innovative platform. As long-time investors in the security alarm space, we appreciate the compelling customer value proposition offered by SimpliSafe’s vertically integrated model and purpose-built security offerings.”
David Donnini, Managing Director and Head of Business & Consumer Services at GTCR
“We have followed SimpliSafe closely for many years and are thrilled to be partnering with an industry leader at the forefront of customer-centric innovation in the security space. We look forward to supporting the company’s continued growth and evolution.”
Tom Ehrhart, Managing Director at GTCR
“The transformation inside SimpliSafe over the past seven years has been extraordinary. Together, we’ve redefined home security, shifting the industry from passive alarms to proactive protection, with technology and monitoring that can verify threats and stop incidents before they escalate.”
Adrien Motte, Partner, Hellman & Friedman
“It has been a privilege to partner with Christian, Chad and Eleanor, and the talented SimpliSafe team in advancing their mission of ‘making every home secure’, and we wish them great success as they continue to build the future of US home security.”
Stefan Goetz, Partner, Hellman & Friedman
