Exclusive Networks leaps into Middle East

VAD dips into kitty to purchase UAE and Saudi distributor

Pan-European VAD Exclusive Networks has made good on its pledge to start acquiring further afield, snapping up Dubai-based Secureway Network Distributors.

The distributor hinted it would make purchases outside of its western European stronghold when it bagged €60m in fresh funding in September.

Having acquired a string of VADs across Europe over the last five years - including UK outfits VADition and Arc - Exclusive already operated in 14 countries, with revenues last year of €279m.

The goal is to expand the top line to €1bn by 2017 by making three acquisitions a year.

The acquisition of Secureway, which has 60 staff in Dubai and Riyadh, will boost this year's turnover to about €400m, Exclusive said.

"Secureway is a successful, well-run company and a good strategic fit for us, enabling access to a profitable and fast-growing group of new markets that extend our reach and stand us apart as the choice of VAD partner for vendors targeting rapid expansion across EMEA," said Exclusive Networks chief executive Olivier Breittmayer.