Orbis Protect

Business Description

Orbis Protect provide a range of vacant property management and lone worker protection services to public and private sector clients throughout the UK.

Background

Orbis works with local authorities and housing associations as well as major commercial organisations, including retail chains and commercial property managers. The company is responsible for securing 30,000 void properties, protecting 35,000 lone workers annually and provides property and inspection services to a further 60,000 properties.

In 2018, NorthEdge backed Guy Other and Ben Howard, along with the existing management team, to support Orbis to deliver its technology and people strategies. Following the investment, the business strengthened its leadership team; launched seven new services to support its customers; and delivered a number of operational efficiencies. During this time, Orbis had also grown revenues at a CAGR of 17%; added to its technology capabilities through the acquisition of Optosafe, a 360-degree CCTV tower provider; and increased employee engagement. Orbis also ranked 8^th in the Sunday Times’ Profit Track for the first time in 2020. In June 2021, following a successful three-year partnership, NorthEdge sold a majority stake in Orbis to growth investor, Synova, alongside reinvesting to support its next phase of growth. Following NorthEdge’s reinvestment, Orbis has expanded into Europe; entered new market segments; and continued the development of its proprietary AI-enabled technology platform. Through this latest investment period, revenue and EBITDA increased by 172% and 214% respectively.

Ben Howard, CEO of Orbis, commented: “Since partnering with NorthEdge in 2018, they have been a consistently supportive and value‑adding investor. Their deep understanding of our business, coupled with their pragmatic strategic input and long‑term commitment, has played an important role in Orbis’ growth. Together, we have built a business with a compelling future whilst preserving the culture and values that define us. I am proud of what we have achieved together as Orbis looks ahead.”

Keven Parker, Joint Managing Partner at NorthEdge, added: “Orbis is a great example of NorthEdge backing outstanding management teams and delivering strong returns across multiple investment cycles. Our initial investment in 2018, followed by our reinvestment in 2021, has generated an exceptional overall return for our stakeholders, reflecting the quality of the business and the strength of Ben and the wider management team. We look forward to seeing the business continue its growth journey with Tiger Infrastructure Partners.”

Exit

In April 2026, NorthEdge fully exited its investment in Orbis to Tiger Infrastructure Partners.