This is Chess’s eleventh acquisition in the last eighteen months and is solid testimony of the effectiveness of Chess’s growth and development strategy. The acquisition of Gemini will substantially strengthen Chess plc’s portfolio of products for the marketplace. The creation of the Chess Wholesale division closely follows its expansion into the data marketplace and foundation of Chess Network Solutions.
Chess Wholesale is a Virtual Network Operator, which will offer industry leading carrier services at competitive prices with access to an extensive network infrastructure and offering a wide range of wholesale and retail voice and data related products and services. Chess plc owns its own broadband network, meaning that Chess Wholesale can offer high speed, secure internet access via resellers. This is particularly attractive to SMEs as it facilitates the implementation of VoIP phone systems, which can save businesses huge amounts on their phone bills and aid in disaster recovery situations.
Both Chess’ David Pollock and Gemini’s Neil Cooling hold similar business philosophies that created two companies with similar cultures. This has meant that the Gemini acquisition was a seamless fit into the Chess plc group of companies.
David Pollock, Chess plc’s Chief Executive said, “The launch of Chess Wholesale further strengthens Chess’s offering and consolidates its position as a leading provider within the telecommunications marketplace.”
Neil Cooling, Managing Director of Chess Wholesale stated, “As a result of the merger with Chess plc we are now able to offer an unrivalled choice of wholesale network products and services to resellers. This move reinforces our position as a leading alternative ‘carrier’ for small and medium sized resellers.”
Chess’s recent activity in the communications market is a clear indication of its strength to branch into new and different areas of the industry, and this at a time when its focus is strongest following the recent merger of Chess’s subsidiaries into the united Chess plc.