Leeds-based data and AI specialist Oakland has been snapped up by leading IT infrastructure provider Softcat, in a strategic move set to supercharge the company’s capabilities in one of tech’s fastest-growing sectors.
The acquisition marks a significant milestone for both businesses. For Softcat – the UK’s largest value-added reseller (VAR) – it represents a major step forward in its ambition to strengthen its position in the increasingly AI-powered and data-driven digital landscape.
READ MORE: Oakland Group lands multi-billion public sector procurement place
“Data is one of the biggest opportunities ahead of us as the innovation in technology continues to shift rapidly towards a more automated and AI-driven world,” said Graham Charlton, CEO of Softcat. “Our customers need the right expertise to navigate this so combining our market presence and broad portfolio with Oaklands specialist capabilities will allow us to support them at every stage. Joining forces with Oakland is a great fit with our strategy and, most importantly, our culture.”
Founded in Leeds, Oakland has carved out a strong reputation for delivering cutting-edge data consultancy, helping clients unlock insight, drive transformation and make smarter decisions. Its team brings a wealth of expertise in areas such as data strategy, engineering and advanced analytics – capabilities that Softcat believes will be critical to future growth.
Richard Corderoy, CEO of Oakland, called the deal a “significant milestone” for the business. “We are excited to join forces with Softcat,” he said. “By combining our deep expertise in data and AI consulting with Softcat’s extensive portfolio and market presence, we can deliver unparalleled value and innovation to our clients. This partnership marks a significant milestone in our journey, and we’re looking forward to achieving great things together.
This time last year Oakland partnered with Data Literacy Academy to help businesses develop the skills and resources they need to make the most of their data assets and align their data capabilities with their business strategy.
Elsewhere today Manchester-based tech scaleup Vypr has announced it has raised £5m in fresh funding as it gears up for international growth and the next evolution of its consumer insights platform.
The raise includes a £4m injection from long-standing backers YFM Equity Partners – which has now invested £9.5m in total – alongside £1m from other investors and company leadership. It brings Vypr’s total funding to date to £13.4m.
