Managed services firm Block has acquired tech company Innov8 in a drive to improve its focus on the healthcare industry.
The purchase will allow Block, a Cisco Gold partner, to take advantage of Innov8's ties with many of the public healthcare organisations the provider already has relationships with, such as Midlands and Lancashire Commissioning Support Unit (MLCSU) and University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, as well as taking on new customers in the sector.
It's part of the company's wider strategy to extend its services to more verticals, offering its consultancy, business transformation and managed services to businesses of all sizes.
“We firmly believe that this new strategic alliance provides significant opportunities for our customers, building further on our shared values, successful track record and growth”, Tracy Doucèt, co-founder of Innov8, said.
“Together we are stronger and hold a unique depth of healthcare expertise, experience and transformative technology capabilities.”
The new board will comprise Doucèt and Ian Smith from Innov8, alongside existing Block board members; co-founder Marc Chang, COO Mark Walton and CFO Gordon Hennessy. Block will keep Innov8's Nottingham office open and staff will join Block, bringing the total number of staff to 120.
“Block has always believed in building true partnerships with clients to drive impactful change through technology, particularly within UK healthcare," added Block CEO and founder Chang.
"It is wonderful to welcome Innov8 as a Block company, who so clearly not only share in our values, but also in our approach. We are very excited about the enhanced capabilities, insight and experience created for our customers as we move forward in unison."
Block anticipates the acquisition of Innov8 will help the company's revenues increase to £30 million for the year.
