Academia acquires Smartdesc to boost managed services

Academia, a tech firm, has announced the acquisition of Managed Service Provider (MSP) Smartdesc to enhance its growth in the services sector.

The acquisition will enable Academia to strengthen its Technical Services portfolio and expand capabilities within Managed Services. Smartdesc, known for its expertise in the non-profit sector, is positioned as an award-winning IT services company with operations across the UK and Europe. It primarily focuses on Microsoft Hardware/Software and Cybersecurity sales, recording a turnover of GBP £9 million with a workforce of 80 employees.

Andrew Harman, Owner of Academia Group, remarked on the significance of the acquisition. He stated, "This acquisition is a significant milestone as we continue to deliver against our strategy for growth and expansion. We're bucking trends at Academia and acquiring Smartdesc, with its expertise and leadership, is a major step in broadening our customer propositions and delivering even more value to customers."

The acquisition includes several strategic benefits. Smartdesc's expertise in IT strategy, IT Helpdesk, Infrastructure, Data Security, Cybersecurity, Azure, and 365 management will enhance Academia's service portfolio. By combining the complementary offerings of both companies, new growth avenues are unlocked, fostering innovation and promoting knowledge-sharing.

Smartdesc also provides Academia with enhanced market expansion capabilities, particularly within the third sector, enabling delivery into the non-profit domain. Additionally, the acquisition aims to strengthen the shared company culture. The alignment of values and goals between Academia and Smartdesc is intended to ensure a seamless transition, providing employees, customers, and partners with continuity and an exceptional experience.

Mark McCormack, Managing Director of Academia, expressed enthusiasm over the acquisition, stating, "Welcoming Smartdesc into the Academia Group aligns perfectly with our long-term growth strategy, providing a tremendous opportunity to scale our support and managed services as well as strengthen our cyber security and infrastructure divisions. By combining talent, portfolios and market opportunities, we're on track to shape the future of IT solutions and services with greater innovation and value for our people, customers and partners. We're excited to welcome the Smartdesc team on board."

Academia's acquisition of Smartdesc represents a strategic move aimed at enhancing its capabilities in the managed services sector. By leveraging Smartdesc's strengths in IT strategy, cybersecurity, and non-profit sector services, Academia seeks to expand its service portfolio and market reach. This development is expected to create synergies between the two companies, allowing for the integration of complementary skills and offerings.

As Academia works to incorporate Smartdesc's expertise into its operations, it will focus on maintaining service continuity for clients and driving innovation in IT solutions.