Matrix creates Commcentric unit

Hybrid company says more acquisitions on the way

Matrix Communications Group has unveiled its new-look distribution arm and revealed that further acquisition targets are already on the cards.

The distribution arm of Matrix was previously known as its Partner Sales division, headed by Ron Sandison, who was integrating three acquired companies Network Partners, Norwood Adam and equIP. However, Sandison left the company just a few months after his appointment (CRN, 27 June).

Ian Morris, a co-founder of equIP, is heading the division, which was rebranded last week as Commcentric.

“The plan is to build a recognised brand around Commcentric, which will act as a parent company to the three distribution businesses,” Morris told CRN.

He said until this brand awareness has been established, the three businesses will continue to operate separately under their own names.

“If the Commcentric brand becomes well known very quickly, then we may look to operate all three divisions under that name. I hope to be able to make a decision on that by the end of the year,” Morris said.

He added that the firm is already considering its next acquisition. “We are looking at how we can strengthen our business in the voice sector, and we also want to grow our presence in the storage arena,” he said.

Keith Humphreys, consultant at EuroLAN research, said this would be a good move for Matrix, as most firms are steering their businesses towards the data centre. “If it wants to be a player that can offer a total solution, it will need to have network infrastructure, voice over IP and storage in its portfolio,” he said.

“Picking up a voice player should not be too hard. You can get some good companies at a very attractive cost at the moment.”

George Dziedic, director at channel consultancy Foster MacCallum, said: “Consolidation to reach the best possible market coverage is the only way today.”