GSS snaps up Peapod

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IT security distributor Global Secure Systems (GSS) has swooped on smaller competitor Peapod in a takeover that creates a new business that will operate under the GSS brand.

The two firms - active security integrators for the past 12 years - together have some 2,500 clients, 2,000 of which are in the GSS stable already.

The combined operation will be run from GSS' Worthing, West Sussex base but also out of Peapod's recently opened offices in in Bracknell with additional satellite/sales offices in London and Dublin.

Though being presented as a merger of equals, clearly Peapod is the junior partner in what looks like a straightforward takeover.

Peapod managing director Chris Durnan noted that his company has had many suitors "and we considered all of them".

But as is usually the case of course, "It did not take long to recognise that this merger provides our clients, our staff and our investors the best possible future".

The deal does make sense for Peapod's customers, who will now have the comfort of working with a more established organisation. Peapod's customer base includes Birmingham College of Food, Tourism and Creative Studies.

GSS' roster of products includes Websense, while Peapod was strong on SurfControl technology - thus the recent takeover of latter by former does seem to confirm this is a sensible move in this end of the security distribution market.

"Peapod are a perfect fit for GSS," said GSS managing director David Hobson.

"We have similar values. Our clients require more from security partners than just the supply and support of a single product. They need a trusted partner to understand their business and work with them to provide a solid architecture. They also need assistance ensuring they comply with the plethora of legislation and regulations facing business today."

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

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