CSI makes second buy in a week

Fast-growing firm snaps up IBM enterprise product, software and managed services business from unnamed seller

CSI Group has made its second acquisition in less than a week, buying the IBM business of an unnamed firm.

The aggressive mid-market player, which last week snapped up the SAP Business Objects business of TAH, made the purchase for an undisclosed sum.

With immediate effect, the IBM enterprise product, software and managed service business will become part of the CSI Group.

Alan Watkins, executive chairman of the CSI Group, said in a statement: "Our mission with the CSI Group has always been to grow the business to meet the challenges of tougher market conditions and address the needs of existing and future customers.

"We are delighted to announce that this latest acquisition will significantly strengthen our position as the UK's next-generation solution provider.

CSI's move was also welcomed by IBM.

Richard Potts, vice president, business partners at IBM UK and Ireland, said: "I am delighted to see this acquisition go through. From an IBM perspective this brings together two important business partners with complementary skills and capabilities.

"I am confident the clients of both companies will benefit as they take advantage of the full range of solutions provided by the combined business particularly in the area of managed services. The acquisition underlines CSI's commitment to transition into a true next-generation solution provider which we at IBM fully support."