IT group swoops for Infrasys as third acquisition
A Solihull managed service provider (MSP) has been acquired by a growing IT group led by entrepreneurs Alex Heslip and Chris Earle.
Infrasys is Project Edge’s third strategic acquisition, following the acquisition of RISC IT, a Colwyn Bay-based value-added reseller (VAR), and Novem, an MSP based in Cheadle, Manchester.
Founded in 2001, Infrasys supports the IT operations of some of the largest UK commercial motor vehicle dealerships, along with some European engineering, financial and technology businesses, whilst also working closely with public sector bodies across Britain and Ireland.
With the integration of Infrasys, the group will expand its portfolio to include broader managed IT support, advanced cybersecurity services, cloud migration and disaster recovery solutions. Clients across the platform will benefit from a significantly larger pool of engineers and specialists.
Bruce Laing and Rhys Watson have been appointed chief information officer (CIO) and chief operating officer (COO), respectively. Laing brings over two decades of experience at RISC IT, while Watson was a co-founder of Novem.
Together with Independence Capital and UK private credit investor, TDC, Project Edge is building a next-generation IT platform focused on regional job creation, service delivery, and long-term value creation through targeted acquisitions and driving organic growth.
Further acquisitions are planned.
Jonathan Gillow of Hill Dickinson acted on behalf of Project Edge and financial due diligence was conducted by Nicola Merritt of Cortus Advisory Group. Jahid Ali of GunnerCooke acted on behalf of Infrasys.
Rhys Watson, COO of Project Edge said: “The integration of Infrasys into the group [Project Edge] allows us to offer an enhanced range of services and support to our clients. With a larger team of diversly skilled engineers, we are better equipped to meet the evolving needs of businesses across the UK.”
Stuart Bloxham, co-founder and director of Infrasys commented: “This acquisition marks an exciting time for both our employees and our customers. By working within a larger, more diverse team, we are enhancing our ability to deliver top-tier IT services and support. Our customers will benefit greatly from the expanded expertise and resources, allowing us to better meet their needs and drive their success.”
Alex Heslip, CEO of Project Edge added: “This acquisition is a significant milestone for Project Edge. By bringing Infrasys into our group, we are not only expanding our geographical reach but also strengthening our capabilities. Our clients will benefit from a more comprehensive, reliable, and efficient IT support system, helping them achieve their business goals with greater confidence and ease.”
Jon Petty, investment director at TDC said: “IT managed services is an attractive sector, and we’re proud to continue to support this group’s ambition through our Impact Fund, which is specifically designed to back Northern businesses that are generating regional employment. Infrasys adds increased scale and capability to the group, and we look forward to continuing to support Alex and Chris as they execute on their ambitious growth plan.”
