The Badlands Security Co., backed by Tucker’s Farm Corp., has acquired Cosmic Fischer, a New York City-based commercial security integrator with roots dating to 1968.

The acquisition marks the second addition to the Badlands platform, which was capitalized by Tucker’s Farm in February 2025 alongside its acquisition of Webster Lock and Hardware Co., one of the largest family-owned locksmith businesses in the United States.

Webster services approximately 10,000 doors with a fleet of roughly 40 trucks and provides mechanical security capabilities. The addition of Cosmic Fischer expands the platform’s capabilities to include electronic security systems.

Cosmic Fischer designs, installs and services doors and storefronts, locks and hardware, electronic access control, video surveillance, intercom systems and gates. The company serves commercial property owners, managing agents and institutional clients, primarily throughout New York City’s five boroughs, with select projects nationwide.

The company traces its origins to Fischer Locksmiths, founded in 1968. Aaron Vaknin led the business for more than three decades, combining Fischer Locksmiths and Cosmic Doors to establish Cosmic Fischer.

Cosmic Fischer to retain name, leadership

Cosmic Fischer will continue operating under its existing name from its Manhattan headquarters. Stephen Vaknin, who has been with the company for more than 11 years and has led its operations for the past six, will remain CEO.

“Cosmic Fischer has been a family business since 1968. We were selective about who we would trust to move the business into the future,” Vaknin said. “Badlands understands our industry and our business approach that has inspired customer loyalty.”

Vaknin said joining Badlands will provide additional resources for technicians, expand customer support capabilities and allow the company to pursue larger projects.

Daniel Balzora, CEO of The Badlands Security Co., said the combination of Webster and Cosmic Fischer enables the platform to address both mechanical and electronic security requirements.

“Customers want one partner for both the hardware in the door and the system that controls it. With Webster and Cosmic, Badlands now delivers both, and Cosmic brings a team that has been doing this work in New York for decades,” Balzora said.

Balzora also indicated that Badlands intends to pursue additional acquisitions.

“Our job is to give Stephen and his technicians more resources, not more supervision. We are a stronger platform today, and we are actively looking for the next partner to join us,” he said.

Badlands operates as a holding company focused on acquiring and growing established security and locksmith businesses in the Northeast. Its operating model retains local brands and management while providing shared purchasing, back-office and capital resources.

The company is seeking additional acquisition partners across commercial security, locksmith services, door hardware and access control.

Vaupen Financial Advisors served as financial advisor to Cosmic Fischer, while Strauss Troy Co., LPA provided legal counsel. Quilvest Capital Partners served as Badlands’ debt financing partner, and Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP provided legal counsel to Badlands.