Context: Pure's IPO makes it an acquisition target

Analyst claims imminent IPO is good news for the channel

The imminent IPO of Pure Storage could make the fledgling flash firm a prime target for acquisition, according to analyst Context.

In documents released last month, Pure outlined its plans for a $400m (£263m) IPO, which is expected to happen any day now.

Analyst Context said the move could see Pure attract larger firms looking to get ahead on flash storage.

"Since the company has been evaluated and more exposed to competitors, it [could] be acquired and give the potential buyer an edge in this fast-growing market," said Context's senior vice president of research and business development Alex Mesguich.

"Pure Storage is in a good position in the enterprise flash market, and a recognised leader in price and ease of deployment. However, the company has neither the fastest technology nor the credibility in the long term in comparison with companies such as EMC or HP in the enterprise flash market."

When Pure first launched in the channel, its chief executive Scott Dietzen told CRN he had plans to grow Pure to the size of its main rivals, such as EMC. He said he had turned down "numerous" offers to sell the firm and has no plans to sell up on the way to the top. Dietzen has been a strong proponent of the channel when talking up the company's expansion plans.

Mesguich added that the IPO will only accelerate Pure's channel activities.

"I would consider this to be of benefit for the channel, as a new and interesting vendor is now making its name alongside the traditional players such as EMC and IBM, which have a lot of legacy cumbersome and expensive platforms to sell, while Pure Storage has a new, clean technology for the future-ready enterprise," he said.