NCS acquires OPTi Networks to target more county schools

Interactive classroom technology is selling well due to public sector initiatives

Aylesford integrator Network & Cabling Solutions (NCS) has bought OPTi Networks to broaden its AV and IT push into educational institutions in southern England.

According to a statement released by NCS, the acquisition combines 20 years of experience. The value of the acquisition was not disclosed.

Simon Colling, director at NCS, said: “By acquiring OPTi Networks, we can take advantage of the excellent margins afforded by AV and IT technology within the education sector.

“Our vast experience in this area means that we can provide the best solutions to customers that meet their needs precisely, while also growing as a business thanks to the continuing revenue opportunities in this sector despite the recession.”

OPTi Networks is based in Milton Keynes and, like its new parent company, focuses on education sales.

NCS believes there is ever-increasing demand from educational institutions in southern England for technology to create innovative learning environments for students, especially in the wake of the government’s Building Schools for the Future (BSF) initiative.

BSF aims to rebuild or renew nearly every secondary school in England, including upgrading teaching technologies.

The integrator is already working in BSF installations in Kent schools, and hopes to expand its involvement into Buckinghamshire and surrounding counties via OPTi.