Nextorch, the world’s largest manufacturer of tactical flashlights, has announced a multi-million dollar investment into its South African subsidiary. The five-year commitment, delivered as capital, equipment, and stock, signals a significant bet on the continued growth of South Africa’s massive private security industry.

The investment aims to tackle a key issue in the sector: access to high-quality, affordable equipment. “Tactical lighting is an often-overlooked component of security, but it is essential to the work of security officers, law enforcement, and anti-poaching units,” says Werner van der Westhuizen, Director at Nextorch Africa. “However, affordability is often a key barrier.” He adds that the funding will allow the company to expand its national footprint and lower its prices.

A market driven by necessity

South Africa has the largest private security industry in the world. According to the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA), the country has over 15,000 registered security companies employing approximately 2.7 million registered private security officers. This figure dwarfs the roughly 180,000 members of the South African Police Service (SAPS).

The sector’s growth shows no signs of slowing, having expanded by 43% over the past decade — a trend directly linked to South Africa’s persistently high crime rates. This has created a robust market for specialised security equipment.

“The private security industry plays a critical role in supporting law enforcement in South Africa,” says van der Westhuizen. Nextorch Africa already supplies equipment to major players like Fidelity ADT and Bidvest Protea Coin, as well as the Tshwane Metro Police. The new investment is intended to deepen these relationships and expand their reach.

A launchpad for continental expansion

Industry leaders have noted the importance of reliable tools. “More and more, South Africans are relying on private security companies to protect their homes,” says Waal de Waal, Chief Operating Officer at Bidvest Protea Coin. “For us, peace of mind comes from knowing that we can rely on our equipment to work in risky circumstances.”

Globally, Nextorch supplies products to over 150 countries and holds the official supply contract for more than 2.4 million police officers in China. For van der Westhuizen, the investment is not just about solidifying the company’s position in South Africa but also about looking ahead.

“The investment from Nextorch HQ provides us with a foundation to expand into the rest of Africa,” he says, “and offer premium products across the continent.”