‘We expect to complete further acquisitions in 2026’: Onecom buys Matrix IT to boost Microsoft services
This marks the firm’s 14th buyout since 2020, with more deals on the way, CEO Darren Ridge tells CRN
LDC-backed IT services provider Onecom has acquired Matrix IT to strengthen its Microsoft capabilities and expand its presence across the South Coast.
By acquiring the Hampshire-based firm, the number 28 ranked company on CRN’s Top VARs list aims to bolster its regional footprint while accelerating its ambition to deliver end-to-end IT services at scale.
“Matrix IT significantly strengthens our Microsoft, cybersecurity and managed services capabilities, while also adding scale in terms of both people and customers to our IT managed services business,” Darren Ridge, CEO of Onecom, tells CRN.
“The acquisition also deepens our presence on the South Coast, with a highly experienced local team close to our customers and further enhances our route to market across the region.”
While the deal brings over 45 people, with around two-thirds of which are focused on service delivery, Ridge notes there are no immediate changes planned to Matrix IT’s leadership team or day-to-day operations.
Onecom will intend to integrate the business within its IT managed services capabilities.
The CEO adds that no decisions have yet been made on whether Matrix IT will be rebranded, as it currently prioritises integration.
Moving forward, Ridge says Onecom plans to remain active in the market and hints at further acquisitions in 2026 to boost its capabilities.
Future targets will be UK-based businesses serving customers across the country, with strong capability across business communications and IT services, including connectivity, UCaaS and CCaaS, cloud services, managed IT and cybersecurity, according to the CEO.
“Cultural alignment, technical depth, customer quality and the ability to scale are all critical factors in our decision-making,” he adds.
The acquisition marks the firm’s 14th since 2020.
Last year, it purchased Gradwell Communications to bolster its communications and hosted voice solutions portfolio.
Other buyouts include Russell Telecom, IP Office, 9 Retail, 9 Partners, Daly Systems, Excalibur Communications, On-Site Connect Limited, IMS Technology, Solution IP, Olive Communications, Nice Network and Glamorgan Telecom Group.
Onecom’s takeover strategy began after receiving £100m in funding from LDC in 2019.
Following the investment, the firm appointed Christian Craggs as its first-ever director of M&A and strategy, which has held this title ever since.