OpenGate Capital, a global private equity firm headquartered in New York and Paris, has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the European and Middle Eastern division of Total Safety, a portfolio company of Littlejohn & Co. The carve-out separates Total Safety EMEA into a standalone platform focused on mission-critical safety and compliance solutions for petrochemical and oil and gas customers across the region. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Headquartered in Diepenbeek, Belgium, Total Safety EMEA operates a fully integrated platform spanning safety services, rental equipment, and product sales. Its offerings include the deployment of trained personnel for critical safety operations, short- and long-term equipment rental, and the supply of personal protective equipment. The business serves clients in highly regulated environments where operational integrity, regulatory compliance, and workforce protection are central requirements.
OpenGate sees particular growth opportunity in the Middle East and plans to build Total Safety EMEA into a scaled, standalone platform under the continued leadership of CEO Steven Lanssens and the existing management team. The transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals and is expected to close later in 2026. OpenGate has executed more than 40 platform acquisitions across Europe and North America since its founding in 2005. McDermott Will & Schulte advised OpenGate on the transaction. Troutman Pepper Locke, Eversheds Sutherland, and Houlihan Lokey advised Total Safety.
KEY QUOTES:
“We are pleased to complete this carve-out acquisition, which reflects our ability to execute in complex situations across jurisdictions and establish high-quality platform investments. Total Safety EMEA provides a strong foundation for growth, and we see clear opportunities to enhance performance and expand its market position, particularly in the Middle East.”
Matt Keshian, Managing Director, OpenGate Capital
“This carve-out marks an exciting new chapter for our business — one where we can sharpen our focus, invest with greater agility and build a platform for growth across Europe and the Middle East. Together, we are well positioned to expand our capabilities and deliver critical safety solutions to the petrochemical and oil & gas industries.”
Steven Lanssens, CEO, Total Safety EMEA
“With OpenGate as its new partner, Total Safety EMEA is well equipped to scale the business across Europe and the Middle East.”
Brad Clark, CEO, Total Safety
