T-Liaison eases fears over ATC acquisition
Virtual network operator T-Liaison has reassured its channel after it was acquired by telecoms reseller
Virtual network operator T-Liaison has reassured its channel after it was acquired by telecoms reseller AT Communications (ATC) earlier this month.
T-Liaison previously worked with ATC and buys wholesale landline minutes and resells through the channel. Since the acquisition, ATC has shipped its own products and services into T-Liaison’s reseller base.
ATC will take on £1.6m of debt through the acquisition. In the year leading up to 31 March 2005 T-Liaison made a loss before tax of £343,000. Despite the results, T-Liaison claimed that no cut-backs are expected.
T-Liaison’s managing director Mark Sensier, said no jobs will be lost and that he will join ATC to head up the network services division.
“From T-Liaison’s point of view it is business as usual for our resellers. We will remain separate from ATC to avoid channel conflict,” he said.
Sensier stated that bringing the two firms together will enhance ATC’s voice service and offer them a stronger enterprise base.
“We currently have 60 to 70 mainly voice resellers, but we will continue to look to expand our channel. Resellers can expect an enhanced portfolio. We will be looking to roll out new voice over IP products in the second quarter of 2006.”
Peter Rowell, chairman at mergers and acquisitions specialists Regent Associates, said the future of T-Liaison’s partners and customers depends of the motives of ATC.
“Most acquisitions are done because the buyer wants access to another firm’s customer base, or for consolidation and cost-saving cut-backs could be made.”
Rowell added that the acquisition will be good news for T-Liaison, but he warned there might be some cut-backs in the future.