FluidOne snaps up MSP Highlander Computing Solutions

FluidOne claims the acquisition will see revenue grow by 35 per cent

FluidOne snaps up MSP Highlander Computing Solutions

FluidOne has today announced the acquisition of Sheffield-based MSP Highlander Computing Solutions.

The cloud and networking aggregator claims the buy will see revenue grow by 35 per cent.

Highlander Computing Solutions focuses on enterprise IT infrastructure, SME IT managed services, enterprise IT cloud services and cyber security services.

FluidOne says this suite of services will now represent nearly 50 per cent of the group's portfolio.

Highlander Computing Solutions MD Steve Brown, said: "When FluidOne approached us, we weren't up for sale. In fact, we'd been approached many times by other companies in the past, but had never found the right fit for our future.

"However, when we had a conversation with FluidOne, everything just fell into place. FluidOne provides the right cultural fit, quality customer service and the opportunity to invest in Sheffield as an HQ and growing hub for SME IT and for enterprise IT infrastructure.

"I'm excited to bring our expertise to a wider customer base across the UK and to strengthen what we can provide our existing customers with wider FluidOne Connected Cloud services."

FluidOne - beefing up managed services in the SME space

CEO Russell Horton said Highlander's addition will help the company grow its focus on the SME market.

"Bringing Highlander into the group is an exciting move for us as their services really complement those in our existing portfolio, further strengthening our Connected Cloud solutions, as well as enabling us to bring a strong IT service offering to small and medium enterprises."

He added: "As I got to know Steve and his senior team I realised what a strong fit they are to our strategy, with loyal and skilled staff, excellent customer service, and a portfolio that fills gaps in our IT offering. We have worked together on a joint strategy with ambitious plans to scale out Highlander as a centre of excellence within the FluidOne group leading a branch network of SME IT services in addition to their strength in enterprise IT infrastructure."

FluidOne management structure

Post-acquisition, Steve Brown will remain as managing director, with Highlander long standing Chairman, Rich Field, remaining with the business as a consultant to the board of directors.

FluidOne's CEO, Russell Horton, is to become Chairman of Highlander, with the FluidOne directors Brendan Lynch, Chris Rogers and Roy Hastings also joining Highlander as legal directors."