IoT and cyber security services group North has been acquired by private equity investor Livingbridge, just as North expands its UK footprint with the strategic acquisition of Data Techniques.
Livingbridge has made the investment through its £1.2 billion Livingbridge 7 fund. It has acquired North from Aliter, a specialist firm within the support services industry. Data Techniques is a specialist in network infrastructure design, installation and support services.
Livingbridge said its move will “accelerate” North’s growth plans. North currently employs over 270 staff and says it is focused on driving regional expansion, strengthening its service lines such as IoT and 5G within critical and complex environments, and continuing to build long-term partnerships with the likes of Aruba, Cisco and Nokia.
The acquired Data Techniques has 90 employees, located across three UK offices in Camberley, Southampton and Basingstoke. The acquisition will reinforce North’s presence in the South East, supporting its national network of technical engineers covering the design, build, maintenance and monitoring of end-to-end IoT solutions and services.
Glen Williams, chief executive at North, said: “The last year has seen tremendous change and growth for North and saw five businesses brought together to form an established player, well positioned to take advantage of growth opportunities.
“The acquisition of Data Techniques demonstrates our focus on building our client base and breadth of services through smart expansion and acquisitions.”
He added: “We are now looking forward to building on our success with Livingbridge who have recognised the potential of our business and have the expertise and knowledge that will help to drive our business forward.”
Matthew Caffrey at Livingbridge, said: “We are working with CEO Glen Williams and his experienced management team to develop North’s strong capabilities, and consolidate a fragmented industry through further M&A to better service the rapidly growing intelligent buildings and smart cities market.”
The value of both acquisitions has not been disclosed.
