“Our customers are asking us for more, especially when it comes to security and optimization,” said Jeff Coursen, outgoing CEO of Evolve IP. “This merger allows us to improve our offerings and meet this demand head-on.”

Solution providers Evolve IP and ATSG have announced a strategic merger Thursday to create an IT services company that will generate about $240 million in revenue with 1,000 people on its payroll.

The merger, which will serve approximately 950,000 users across a portfolio of 1,700 global customers,

signifies a strategic alignment of the visions of both companies to drive innovation and drive customer success.

“We have been in contact with Evolve for over a year and look forward to integrating our services to better meet customer needs,” Russ Reeder (pictured), CEO of ATSG, told CRN in an interview. “One of the key products we will focus on is Desktop-as-a-Service (DaaS), which is gaining traction, particularly as businesses seek reliable and flexible IT solutions.”

ATSG, which appeared in the 2023 CRN Triple Crown Listand Evolve IP will retain their respective brands. The combined company will employ approximately 1,000 employees. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“Our customers are asking us for more, especially when it comes to security and optimization,” Jeff Coursen, outgoing CEO of Evolve, told CRN. “This merger allows us to improve our offerings and meet this demand head-on.”

Coursen will remain an advisor while Reeder will take over as CEO of the combined companies.

“We have already started to lay the groundwork for collaboration,” Coursen said. “This merger aims to combine our strengths and maximize our potential in a competitive sector. »

Integrating Evolve IP’s strengths in managed services with ATSG’s proficiency in IT solutions will create a comprehensive suite with a customer-centric approach and renewed investment in innovation.

Significant resources will be allocated to research and development to ensure the company remains at the forefront of technological advancements, Coursen said.

The merger will also strengthen Evolve’s presence in Europe, where the company plans to leverage ATSG’s existing platform and private label offerings.

“The European market is less mature, especially in the area of ​​voice solutions, but it has enormous potential,” said Coursen. “We see strong opportunities in sectors like hospitality and automotive, which are ready to welcome our services. »

The new partnership also aims to provide a “white glove customer support” experience that sets it apart from traditional MSPs.

“When times are tough, businesses want partners they can trust, not just one name on a long list of suppliers,” Reeder said. “We are here to provide everything from high-level IT services to advanced cybersecurity solutions. »

The timing of the acquisition coincides with growing market demand for secure and scalable IT solutions, particularly as more organizations move to hybrid work environments.

“We plan to make a few additional acquisitions over the next couple of years to continue to push the boundaries of technology and innovation,” Reeder said.