Johannesburg, 18 Jun 2008
Leading enterprise communications specialist Bytes Communication Systems, a member of Bytes Technology Group, a subsidiary of JSE-listed Altron Group, is pleased to announce the acquisition of contact centre and customer interaction experts Intelleca Voice and Mobile (Intelleca)
The transaction results in the creation of a formidable communications technology solutions provider in South Africa, with solutions that span the full range of broad-based voice and data solutions to customers in the contact centre and enterprise arena. The parties have received unconditional approval from the Competition authorities.
Operationally, Intelleca will continue to focus on its core competencies and report into Bytes Technology Group through Bytes Communication Systems. Additionally, Intelleca will benefit from Bytes industry leading empowerment credentials and be able to capitalise on the strong BEE partnership which Bytes already enjoys with Kagiso, through the latter^1s 27% shareholding.
The combined entity, embracing some 320 employees, boasts one of the country^1s largest pools of dedicated communication specialists focussed on addressing a wide range of customer requirements within the converged communications space.
Intelleca now also has access to Bytes^1 national footprint of offices and support centres.
"We have a strong association with Intelleca and share a number of joint clients," says George Isaacson, Managing Director of Bytes Communication Systems. ^3The acquisition was a logical move for both parties as it extends our joint portfolio of offerings to customers.^2
Intelleca is rated as South Africa's leader in managed services for IP Contact Centres on Demand. This will greatly bolster Bytes^1 own expertise in this field, and is of significant strategic importance as Voice-over-IP (VoIP) convergence moves into the mainstream.
"Intelleca^1s success has been built on its market leadership and delivery of highly innovative business and technology solutions," says Michael Renzon, CEO of Intelleca. "As part of Bytes Technology Group we now have the leverage to extend these solutions both nationally and internationally. There is a strong cultural affinity between the companies, and the autonomy afforded by Bytes Technology Group allows Intelleca to continue on the entrepreneurial path that has always fuelled our growth."
Bytes Communication Systems services more than 70 installed Contact Centres, covering a spectrum of businesses ranging from SME^1s to many of South Africa^1s blue chip corporations. Intelleca counts a number of South Africa^1s telco network operators and blue-chip companies among its clients. In addition, Intelleca provides professional services in Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Africa, thus complementing Bytes^1 own strategies.
Bytes Communication Systems is currently rolling out a new customer-centric strategy centred on giving customers the "Competitive Edge". By unlocking the real value that the effective use of technology can offer, the company believes that the acquisition will provide a critical link in the delivery of this approach.
Bytes Communication Systems is a Premier Alcatel-Lucent partner for South Africa, and Isaacson says the acquisition will significantly bolster the companies" combined Genesys business. Genesys, an Alcatel-Lucent company, has welcomed and endorsed the acquisition, pledging its support to both parties.
Intelleca has been named the Genesys EMEA New Business Partner of the Year for 2006 and the Genesys EMEA African Partner of the Year for 2007, in addition to many other awards it has won for market penetration and innovation.
"Our pool of talent is now second to none across a full range of voice and contact centre solutions. Intelleca is an exciting company that has seen significant growth year on year since its inception eight years ago, and we are looking forward to working with the young and dynamic spirit it has to offer. I believe that this acquisition gives us the edge over our competitors in terms of product and service offering and delivery," adds Isaacson.
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