Exclusive Networks expands into Sub-Saharan Africa with latest acquisition
The distributor has snapped up major regional VAD serving 38 national markets in Africa
Exclusive Networks continues its global expansion by establishing its first presence in sub-Saharan Africa with the acquisition of cyber specialist Networks Unlimited.
The French distributor first revealed intentions to add Networks Unlimited to its roster in August.
Exclusive described Networks Unlimited as a major regional value-added distributor serving 38 national markets in Africa with cybersecurity and infrastructure solutions.
It added the South Africa-HQ distributor has been a "consistent" and "influential" presence in the African IT distribution landscape for over 27 years, with deep partner links and established cybersecurity expertise.
It has further operations in Kenya and Mauritius and transacts with partners throughout 38 African countries including Nigeria and Ghana.
"This is the perfect acquisition for us in Africa - I'm pleased to welcome Networks Unlimited into the global Exclusive family and believe this brings a host of benefits and opportunities to all our partners," said Exclusive Networks CEO, Jesper Trolle.
"There are strong synergies in our cultures, value propositions and vendor portfolios, which extend our global partnerships with Fortinet, SentinelOne, F5 and many others.
"As well as filling in more of the global map with Exclusive Networks' presence, we see enormous potential in the broader African market that we can now serve from offices throughout the continent and our regional logistics hub in UAE, and which complements our established business in North Africa."
Global footprint
This latest M&A move marks Exclusive's third acquisition this year following its buys of Veracomp, Alkira and Ignition Technology.
The distribution giant shows no signs of slowing its growth, however, after posting gross sales of €2.9bn in 2020 and completing a successful IPO and listing on Euronext Paris in September.
Networks Unlimited's managing director, Anton Jacobsz, and the two co-founders, Craig Copeland and Wayne Bird will remain shareholders and continue to manage the company together with The Love Trust, the company's Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) partner in South Africa.
Following the acquisition Exclusive Networks Africa will remain a Level 1 B-BBEE company.
Moreover, Networks Unlimited will operate under the Exclusive Networks brand once the integration has been completed, expected in early 2022.
The company will form part of an enlarged Middle East & Africa (MEA) region headed by regional director, Nathan Clements.
Jacobsz adds: "This is great news for our staff and all our customers and partners.
"It's not the end of our journey, but the beginning of an exciting new chapter where we can accomplish so much more with the global reach and resources of Exclusive Networks.
"I look forward to working closely with colleagues across the region to extend our partner offer, particularly around services, and to continue the high standards our customers are accustomed to."