Mid-range and high-end storage systems, software and services provider Hitachi Data Systems (HDS) plans to acquire data centre technology offerings provider Shoden Data Systems (Shoden).
HDS said with this acquisition Shoden will enable Hitachi Data Systems to better serve its growing customer base throughout the region by helping customers reduce costs, carry out business innovation initiatives, improve service levels and deploy new applications and technologies more quickly and efficiently.
Shoden remains committed to its mission of providing "the data center advantage" to customers by understanding their business challenges and implementing optimized IT solutions coupled with excellent service and support, said HDS.
Shoden designs, provisions, deploys and supports products and technologies that simplify and optimise data center environments to many enterprise customers in the region, including major banks, telecommunication companies and retail companies.
Shoden is a supporter of Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE), in particular through its relationship with Tactical Software Systems (TSS), an IT company that provides business solutions for commercial and public enterprises in South Africa.
Hitachi Data Systems said it intends to continue this relationship with TSS and is committed to building on the company’s adoption of the B-BBEE framework should the competition authorities approve the proposed acquisition.
Hitachi Data Systems EMEA senior vice-president and general manager Niels Svenningsen said HDS’s proposed acquisition of Shoden is the natural next step in a relationship that has blossomed throughout the years.
"Shoden has achieved great success and leadership in South Africa, creating a strong customer base and building a skilled and motivated team. We share the same values and commitment to excellence and innovation. Together, as a united company, we are committed to continuing the outstanding support given to all of our customers and to continue to grow across Africa," said Svenningsen.
Shoden Data Systems managing director Marc Trevenen said Shoden is proud of the proven expertise, reputation and local knowledge that we have developed over the past 11 years.
"The strength of Hitachi Data Systems solutions has been an integral part of this journey. Joining forces with Hitachi Data Systems would be a win-win situation for our employees, our partners and our customers, and will enable our organization to continue to develop and prosper," added Trevenen.
