BBT expands regional footprint

OFFICE technology company BBT Group has strengthened its North West footprint with the acquisition of a Lancashire firm.

BBT – which stands for Business By Technology – has bought Preston-based Oakham Business Systems, a supplier of photocopiers, printers and digital imaging equipment, for an undisclosed sum.

The deal will take annual turnover past £6m and the enlarged firm has more than 50 employees based in Coventry and at its existing North West base at Salford Quays.

Oakham’s Preston office on Heatley Street will remain open, while BBT remains alive to further bolt-on deals.

BBT Group director Philip Runciman said: “Oakham Business Systems has a great reputation with very loyal customers and is an excellent fit for our business. 

“The acquisition offers Oakham clients an expanded portfolio of products and services including document management and managed print services.”

BBT Group says it has seen good growth in the print management market, winning business from both public and private sector organisations, including several academies built under the Building Schools for the Future programme.

Runicman added:  “This is an exciting time for the business as we grow our nationwide offering and extend our presence in the North West.  We look forward to welcoming the Oakham team to the BBT Group.”