Orange Belgium takes over ICT integrator BKM and reinforces its B2B activity

Today Orange Belgium and the shareholders of Upsize NV signed an agreement related to the acquisition of Upsize NV and its subsidiary companies BKM NV and CC@PS. With this acquisition, Orange Belgium will extend its B2B offering with BKM’s Unified Communications & Collaboration and ICT solutions, and answer to a growing demand of its B2B customers for a single connectivity and ICT provider. The acquisition will be submitted to the Belgian Competition Authority for approval, before finalizing the transaction.

BKM is a nationwide ICT integrator, with a solid track-record in the SME and CMA markets in Belgium. BKM offers high-quality ICT solutions in 4 separate areas of expertise: Unified Communications & Collaboration (UCC) solutions, IT & security solutions, Document & Visual solutions and Connectivity solutions. Moreover, BKM is a pioneer in cloud UCC solutions. Over the last 25 years, BKM has become a reliable reference in the B2B market. In 2018, the company generated €43m pro-forma revenues.

For Orange Belgium, this acquisition carries an enterprise value of €52.4m and represents a unique opportunity to extend its connectivity solutions portfolio and enrich its B2B offering. The combination of Orange Belgium’s connectivity network and BKM’s ICT network will enable Orange Belgium’s and BKM’s customers to benefit from a one-stop-shop ecosystem. With this acquisition, Orange Belgium will welcome 230 team members with high-skilled ICT profiles.

Michaël Trabbia, CEO of Orange Belgium, explains: “I am delighted to welcome the BKM teams within the Orange family. Following up on our B2B strategic ambitions, this acquisition will allow us to enhance our B2B offers and services to both Orange Belgium’s and BKM’s customers. Together, we will further challenge the ICT and connectivity markets, and leverage cross-selling opportunities.”

Bart Soetaers, CEO of BKM, confirms: “I am convinced BKM’s and Orange Belgium’s complementarity will enable us to guide our customers through their digital journey with a complete ICT offering, in the SME as well as in the corporate segment. Moreover, BKM joins a strong telecom player and a strong brand. Both strengths will help us to realize our common growth ambitions. For the BKM staff members, this acquisition represents a unique opportunity to further evolve within the Orange family.”

Werner De Laet, Chief Enterprise Officer Orange Belgium : “With the acquisition of BKM, we strengthen our product portfolio to help our B2B customers in their strategic data journey.  In addition, the entrepreneurial spirit of BKM fits perfectly with the bold challenger position of Orange Belgium in the enterprise market.”