UK AltNets Freedom Fibre and VX Fibre Announce Strategic Merger
Freedom Fibre and VX Fibre, both prominent UK alternative network providers, have announced their merger, solidifying their position in the market. The combined entity, operating under the name Freedom Fibre with CEO Neil McArthur at the helm, will boast a network spanning 285,000 premises. Freedom Fibre, established in 2020, specializes in wholesale-only services and maintains a strategic partnership with major UK broadband provider TalkTalk. With market consolidation gaining traction, this move is seen as a strategic merger to enhance business strength, diversity, and growth ambitions.
IBM Acquires StreamSets and webMethods for €2.13 Billion
IBM has revealed its €2.13 billion cash acquisition of StreamSets and webMethods platforms from Software AG, majority owned by Silver Lake. These acquisitions, integral to IBM’s focus on AI and hybrid cloud, enhance application modernization and AI deployment capabilities. StreamSets contributes data ingestion capabilities to IBM’s AI and data platform, watsonx, while webMethods augments integration and API management tools for hybrid multi-cloud environments. The acquisition is expected to conclude in Q2 2024, subject to regulatory approvals.
Iristel Unveils Operator Connect for Microsoft Teams Phone Worldwide
Iristel, a leading global telecommunications operator, has unveiled Operator Connect for Microsoft Teams Phone, streamlining telephone services across North America, select European, and African locations. This move aligns with Iristel’s commitment to empowering businesses with seamless communication solutions. Operator Connect integrates seamlessly with Microsoft Teams, simplifying deployment and ensuring a superior Teams Phone experience. Iristel’s expertise extends to Kenya, marking a global expansion. The service, managed through the Teams admin center, boasts direct connections to Microsoft Azure, reducing deployment complexity. Iristel’s CEO, Samer Bishay, emphasizes the innovation’s significance in meeting evolving business communication needs.
Giacom Strengthens Microsoft Cloud Dominance with intY Acquisition
Giacom has acquired UK-based Microsoft cloud services provider intY from ScanSource, expanding its Microsoft Cloud portfolio. The acquisition includes intY’s UK revenues, partners, and business operations, integrating 1,500 partners into Giacom’s ecosystem. This move solidifies Giacom’s position as a leading Microsoft licensing provider in the SMB-focused UK Channel. The integration aims to enhance service continuity for partners while providing access to a broader range of products and services. Giacom plans to leverage this acquisition to create added value, supporting growth and success for partners in the SMB landscape.
