Chess takes Foursys in latest acquisition gambit

Comms VAR says purchase of Sophos partner will add another £11m to top line

Acquisitive comms VAR Chess has leapt into the cyber-security space by acquiring Foursys for an undisclosed sum.

Foursys is one of Sophos' top UK partners and specialises in providing cyber-security consultancy to public sector, SMB, corporate and enterprise organisations.

The Bury St Edmunds-based firm, which underwent an MBO in 2013 led by directors James Miller and Jezz Turner, will add about £11m to Chess' top line, propelling its revenue runrate to £120m.

Chess has made over 100 acquisitions in its 23-year history, and last year move further beyond its roots in the comms market by acquiring Microsoft and HP partner Lanway, as well as the bulk of managed services provider Pinnacle. In November, it consolidated its ICT activities under one roof and appointed a new dedicated management for it.

Chess founder and chief executive, David Pollock, said: "Cyber security is of upmost importance for any modern business. Foursys share our passion for delivering technological advantage and importantly this acquisition enhances our security offering to our customers. Together with their expertise, we have the talent and technology needed to deliver truly integrated solutions across enterprise, mobile and cloud environments."

Foursys managing director Miller added: "The cultural, organisational and business fit of the two companies is perfect. I'm delighted that Chess see the acquisition of Foursys as such a key step on their growth journey. Being part of a much larger business brings new supplier choice, opportunities, expertise and skills in a wide range of ICT disciplines to our customers and partners."