Gresham backed Team Telecom group acquires C&C Technology in first step of expansion

Communications specialist Team Telecom Group (TTG) today announced it has acquired IT consultancy C&C Technology, in the first phase of the Group’s planned expansion since Gresham Private Equity backed a £32.8m management buy-out from Spice Plc in May 2010.

The move combines the strengths of TTG and C&C in the aviation sector and brings additional capabilities and services to TTG’s aviation portfolio which already includes AirRadio, a leader in mobile radio solutions for airport and airline operations.

Mike Norfield, CEO of TTG, says: “This is just the first step in our expansion and targeted growth in the aviation sector. AirRadio has a reputation for delivering world class mobile radio solutions to the aviation industry, and it makes sense for us to build on this success. C&C is a highly respected consultancy with a strong heritage in the sector and offers a good fit with AirRadio. For our customers it means we can provide a more comprehensive range of cutting- edge IT, communications and related services.”

Based in Basingstoke, C&C has provided services to the aviation sector and other markets for over 15 years, delivering award-winning IT services to clients including BAA, Gatwick Airport and baggage handling specialists Vanderlande. With a team of over 150 consultants and increasing product development capabilities, the company will be an integral part of TTG’s plans to build a new dedicated technology and consultancy services group with AirRadio, expanding their combined strengths in aviation, while continuing to look for opportunities in other markets.

Paul Franks, Partner, Gresham Private Equity says: “C&C complements AirRadio perfectly and is a fantastic addition to TTG’s portfolio of businesses. It was clear when we backed the buy-out last year that there is considerable growth potential in this area of telecommunications, both in the UK and overseas, and this acquisition is likely to be the first of many.”

The acquisition will see C&C Technology’s existing team remain in place, with their founder principals, Managing Director Jason Colombo and Sales & Marketing Director John Foster, joining the board of the new technology and consultancy services group.