UWT – a reseller based in neighbouring Wilmslow sold most of its base but will continue to operate as a business in its own right offering the same services as before to retained and new customers – in other words – “business as usual”.
Chess say their ever-expanding product portfolio will be of substantial interest to UWT customers who currently subscribe to a range of voice only services. Chess offers a wider range of communications products and services including installation of systems and cabling, mobiles, BlackBerry and applications over its own high-speed broadband network, which it will sell actively into UWT’s former base.
An integral part of Chess’ “Blueprint for Success”, launched in December 2005, is its achievement of 100% year on year expansion through organic growth and acquisitions.
Chess has been very active at purchasing in the telecoms reseller marketplace lately, having made 12 acquisitions in the past two years. This activity is set to continue at good pace and Chess’ Director of Corporate Finance, Richard Btesh sees acquisitions as instrumental in the business growth and development strategy.
Chess’ ability to serve the ever-increasing and widening demands of the corporate customer was important to Berkeley Thirsk, Managing Director of UWT, when he made the decision to sell. “We were faced with a number of options and making the best choice was fundamental. It was paramount to us that our customers would continue to receive a high level of service and Chess clearly demonstrated that this was something it will deliver. It is clear that Chess has a strong core culture, in which commitment to excellence, honesty and integrity are core principles.”
“The acquisition of UWT’s customer base will further strengthen Chess’ position as a market leading business communications solution provider” says Chess Chief Executive, David Pollock, “Our aim is to be recognised as ‘the choice’ for business voice and data solutions. Chess prides itself on its innovative approach in all aspects of the business and we are an ambitious organisation. We don’t want to just be the best; we want to be known as the only ones who do what we do. We work in a fast moving and dynamic industry and opportunities for growth are constantly being created.”