| Valuation method | Value, £ | Upside, % |
|---|---|---|
| Artificial intelligence (AI) | 71.19 | -4 |
| Intrinsic value (DCF) | 28.56 | -61 |
| Graham-Dodd Method | 0.61 | -99 |
| Graham Formula | 0.65 | -99 |
Croma Security Solutions Group plc (LSE: CSSG) is a UK-based provider of comprehensive security services, operating through three key segments: Croma Vigilant (manned guarding and asset protection), Croma Security Systems (CCTV, fire, and alarm systems), and Croma Locksmiths (locksmithing and access control solutions). Headquartered in Whiteley, the company serves diverse security needs across the UK, from physical guarding to advanced electronic security systems. With a market cap of approximately £11.8 million, Croma Security Solutions Group plays a niche but vital role in the UK's security and protection services industry, part of the broader Industrials sector. The company rebranded from Croma Group plc in 2012, reflecting its specialized focus on integrated security solutions. Its diversified service offerings position it as a one-stop security provider for commercial and residential clients, leveraging both traditional and technological security measures.
Croma Security Solutions Group presents a mixed investment profile. On the positive side, the company operates in a stable industry with consistent demand for security services, evidenced by its revenue of £8.7 million and net income of £543,000. Its low beta (0.551) suggests lower volatility compared to the broader market, appealing to risk-averse investors. The company also maintains a healthy cash position (£2.14 million) with modest debt (£591,000). However, its small market cap and limited scale may constrain growth opportunities in a competitive industry dominated by larger players. The dividend yield (based on a 2p per share payout) could attract income-focused investors, but EPS of 0.0394p indicates thin margins. Investors should weigh its niche positioning against potential challenges in scaling operations.
Croma Security Solutions Group competes in the fragmented UK security services market, differentiating itself through a hybrid model combining manned guarding (Croma Vigilant) with technical solutions (CCTV/alarms via Croma Security Systems) and locksmithing services. This integrated approach allows cross-selling opportunities but may lack the scale advantages of larger pure-play competitors. The company's competitive edge lies in its localized expertise and diversified service portfolio, enabling bundled offerings for SMEs and residential clients. However, its relatively small size limits its ability to compete for large national contracts against multinational security firms. In electronic security, it faces pressure from specialized tech-driven providers with more advanced IoT-enabled systems. The locksmithing segment provides steady cash flow but operates in a highly competitive, low-margin space. Croma's focus on the UK market shields it from currency risks but also caps growth potential compared to global peers. Its financial stability (positive operating cash flow of £913k) supports reinvestment, but capital expenditures (£793k) suggest ongoing investment needs to keep pace with technological advancements in the industry.