Matrix Acquires Network Partners

EAST GRINSTEAD, U.K. -- Matrix Communications Group plc (MXC), announced today that it has acquired Network Partners, an independent provider of telecommunications services specialising in the provisioning and management of voice, data and Internet services, for £12 million. The acquisition, Matrix’s largest and most strategic to date, forms part of an ongoing strategy to grow Matrix Communications Group into one of the leading providers of IT solutions, services and consultancy in the UK. Under the terms of the agreement, Network Partners will remain an autonomous business unit with its own brand identity, offices and P&L responsibilities.

Ian Smith, Matrix Communications Group plc CEO, said, "Over the past 18 months we have continued to expand our range of products and services through acquisition. Our aim is to provide a comprehensive portfolio of network services whilst retaining the high level of expertise for each offering that our customers have come to expect. With the Network Partners acquisition, we are now positioned to expand our offering to both new and existing customers through the provision of carrier services. I have been very impressed with its management and look forward to incorporating their expertise as we grow in this exciting sector.”

“Joining Matrix Communications Group means that Network Partners has greater business opportunities, better support infrastructure, and access to a far wider customer base,” said Ron Sandison, Managing Director. “At the same time, Network Partners will maintain its identity, sales team, offices and responsibilities as before, and will be supplying other businesses within Matrix in the same way we supply our existing partners and customers,” he said.

Matrix Communications Group plc