Deals done this past week


4 Jul 2011

An overview of the week in deals in the Irish technology sector.

Nostra Systems acquires Rocklan Technologies – plans to grow workforce

IT business service firm Nostra Systems has acquired the business of Rocklan Technologies. Both Irish-owned companies operate mainly with SME clients and specialise in cloud computing and technology.

For commercial reasons, Nostra says the cost of the acquisition is not being disclosed.

Rocklan Technologies’ staff and customer base will transfer to Nostra. The acquisition will give Nostra a workforce of 22 people and the company is budgeting for a total of 35 staff by summer 2012.

Nostra Systems is based in Sandyford, Co Dublin. Kevin O’Loughlin, Leinster Young Entrepreneur of the Year and Ulster Bank Business Achiever Award winner, set up the company in 2007.

The total investment to date in Nostra by O’Loughlin and fellow investors is €1.2m.

Tesco Mobile forges mobile retail deal with Doro

Swedish mobile phone manufacturer Doro – which specialises in making user-friendly mobile devices for the elderly – has signed a mass market retail deal with Tesco Mobile, which will carry the Doro PhoneEasy 409s.

The Doro PhoneEasy 409s is priced at €79.99 and available now at Tesco stores.

“Working with Tesco in the UK, and now Ireland, offers further proof of our market-leading position within the European senior and easy-to-use mobile space,” Chris Millington, MD of Doro Ireland, said.

“Tesco Mobile’s price plans and customer billing system are straight forward and easy to understand – so there is a clear fit,” Millington added.

Consumer tech player ZAGG acquires iFrogz for US$104m

Consumer electronics accessories firm ZAGG, which is creating 140 jobs in Shannon, has acquired protective cover company iFrogz for US$104m.

iFrogz is a designer and producer of protective cases and audio products, primarily for smartphones and tablet devices. iFrogz has a complete line of the cases and products.

“The acquisition of iFrogz solidifies our position in Ireland and further enhances the commitment ZAGG International has made to the region regarding employment opportunities,” said Brian Packer, MD of ZAGG International.

“Our office in Shannon will be responsible for the European logistics of this new entity as iFrogz staff based in Europe will now be reporting to us,” Packer added.

In addition to appealing to existing consumers, this deal is anticipated to help ZAGG reach a younger, lifestyle-oriented consumer who is looking for a high-quality product with distinctive styling at an affordable price point.

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