Industry greets Xpert buy

Genesis acquisition will make new company a strong player in convergence market

At a time when talk of consolidation in the channel is rife, Xpert Group's acquisition of telecoms reseller Genesis has been welcomed by the industry.

Genesis was sold for an undisclosed amount to Xpert Systems, a reseller and sister company of telecoms distributor Caltell Communications.

The move will make the new company, which will be incorporated into the Xpert Group, a strong player in the convergence market.

Xpert specialises in IP telephony, wireless, security, structured cabling and storage area networks across both local area network and wireless area network.

Genesis was strong in voice and call centre technology spanning both the SME and enterprise markets.

Ray Cross, chief executive of Xpert Systems, said: "This is an excellent opportunity for both companies.

"Client needs are increasingly converged and this acquisition enhances Xpert Group's ability to meet those needs. This will give us the depth of technical expertise that will give us the edge."

Cross added that the acquisition fits with Xpert's long-term strategy of both organic and acquisitive growth.

Kevin Stevens, managing director of Genesis, said: "The cultural fit is very good. We like Xpert's management style, and working together will provide a genuinely integrated portfolio and service."

Clive Sawkins, vice president of UK and Eire at Avaya, said the sale was positive for the industry.

"Convergence has meant firms will pool their knowledge. Acquisitions such as this offer greater stability," he said.

John Donovan, UK and Ireland channels director at Cisco, said: "We have been aware for some time that this was going to happen.

"It's a very exciting opportunity for Xpert because it gives it a good chance to capitalise on the convergence market, an area where we are seeing strong growth."

Donovan added that it made sense for the two companies to merge and increase business opportunities.