ANS acquires Makutu to boost Microsoft-focused AI expertise
ANS has announced the acquisition of Makutu, a Derby-based consultancy specialising in data engineering and advanced AI services and solutions.
The acquisition sees Makutu's 25-strong team join ANS, strengthening its capabilities in delivering enterprise-grade data platforms and responsible artificial intelligence adoption. The financial backing for the transaction came from Inflexion and Barings.
Makutu integration
Makutu, founded in 2020, was recently identified as one of the top five emerging data and AI scale-ups by research organisation Megabuyte. The consultancy brings expertise in Microsoft Fabric readiness, OneLake migration, predictive analytics, and real-time IoT platforms. Its service history includes work across local government, housing, utilities and retail, complementing ANS's presence in the UK's public and private sectors for data modernisation and AI readiness initiatives.
Makutu's approach centres on Microsoft technologies, aligning it with ANS's existing partnership with Microsoft. ANS has previously been recognised as Microsoft Services Partner of the Year 2024, and its team consists of more than 100 certified Microsoft specialists alongside four Microsoft Most Valuable Professionals.
Leadership perspectives
Richard Thompson, CEO at ANS, said: "Makutu's expertise in data platforms, AI and IoT will enable us to accelerate our mission to make technology accessible and impactful for all organisations. Customers increasingly recognise that AI success depends on strong data foundations. With Makutu joining our team, we are in an even stronger position to help organisations across the UK prepare for that future.
"This acquisition builds on the success of previous deals, including our acquisition of Dynamics 365 specialist Preact. It reflects our strategy of combining strong organic growth with selective M&A activity to create one of the UK's leading Microsoft-focused digital transformation partners."
Simon Blewitt, CTO at Makutu, commented: "Joining ANS gives our team the scale and reach to maximise what we do best – designing and delivering data and AI solutions that transform organisations. We are proud of the reputation we have built in the Microsoft ecosystem, and are looking forward to combining our innovation and technical depth with ANS's national presence and strong community values."
Expanding reach
ANS now has a staff of more than 650 technology and business specialists. Makutu's addition provides the consultancy with a wider platform to apply its technical knowledge, and access to ANS's national sales network and established client base for further growth across sectors. For ANS, Makutu's sector experience in government, housing, utilities and retail adds further depth to its offering, enhancing the company's position as a Microsoft-focused digital transformation partner.
The deal follows ANS's previous acquisition of Dynamics 365 specialist Preact, aligning with the firm's strategy of combining organic growth with selective mergers and acquisitions in the UK technology sector.
Industry context
ANS's stated aim is to help organisations become AI-ready by focusing on safe, responsible and impactful technology adoption. The company offers services including cloud, data, security, business applications and low-code solutions, and works with thousands of organisations in enterprise, SMB and the public sector.
Makutu's recognition by Megabuyte and its focus on Microsoft platforms contribute to ANS's position as one of the select partners in the UK with comprehensive Microsoft certifications. ANS operates five IL3-accredited data centres in Manchester and partners with major technology providers such as Microsoft, AWS, VMware and Cisco.
