Communicate Bolsters IT Portfolio with Blaze Networks Acquisition
In a move that strengthens its position as a leading provider of secure IT solutions, business broadband and managed services provider Communicate has announced the acquisition of Blaze Networks, a security-focused MSP known for its expertise in SD-WAN and advanced networking.
Expanding Capabilities and Driving Growth
The acquisition, Communicate’s fifth since receiving backing from private equity investor Rockpool Investments, is expected to drive significant growth. CEO Tony Snaith projects turnover will nearly triple from £6 million in June 2024 to £17 million in 2025.
“Bringing Blaze Networks into the Communicate group significantly strengthens our ability to offer cutting-edge, secure IT solutions,” said Snaith. “This acquisition is not only about expanding our service offering – it’s about creating real value for customers and fostering professional growth for our team as we continue to scale.”
Seamless Integration and Shared Vision
Under the agreement, Blaze Networks will continue to operate under current MD Ben Brassington, who has re-invested in the group and expressed his commitment to the partnership.
“Joining Communicate presents a fantastic opportunity for Blaze Networks to accelerate its growth while continuing to deliver the high-quality solutions our customers rely on,” said Brassington. “By integrating with Communicate, we can offer an even more comprehensive service, while also providing our team with exciting new career development opportunities.”
Enhancing Security with SD-WAN and SASE
The acquisition of Blaze Networks particularly enhances Communicate’s security capabilities. Blaze’s expertise in SD-WAN and Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) solutions will allow Communicate to provide businesses with seamless, scalable, and highly secure network architectures.
SD-WAN enables companies to leverage multiple transport services, including broadband internet services, to securely connect users to applications. SASE delivers security controls and services via the cloud, reducing complexity and costs.
Investor Confidence and Deal Advisors
Rockpool Investments, which first invested in Communicate in June 2024, provided additional funding to support the acquisition. Investment director Tom Coey and manager Toby Hurdle led the transaction, demonstrating continued confidence in Communicate’s growth strategy.
Communicate and Rockpool were advised on the deal by Cooper Parry (financial and tax), Roxburgh Milkins (legal) and Taylor Wessing (legal). Blaze Networks was advised by KBS Corporate Finance (M&A), K3 Law (legal) and K3 Advantage (tax).
Looking Ahead: Continued Expansion
With the integration of Blaze Networks, Communicate is well-positioned to continue its rapid expansion in the business IT and connectivity space. The acquisition enhances the company’s ability to deliver a fully integrated suite of services, including cloud, backup, and disaster recovery solutions, to meet the evolving needs of UK businesses.
As digital transformation accelerates and cybersecurity threats intensify, Communicate’s comprehensive, security-focused approach is likely to resonate strongly with business customers seeking trusted partners to navigate an increasingly complex IT landscape.
