2025 Issue #3 - This week in the ICT Channel

Comms Dealer's roundup of this week's news brings you the latest updates from the ICT channel. Stay informed and ahead of the curve by subscribing to our weekly insights and industry news!

FullFibre and Zzoomm agree significant merger

FullFibre Limited and Zzoomm have merged to form one of the UK's largest alternative network (altnet) providers, with 600,000 ready to serve properties and over 65,000 customers. This merger combines two complementary networks, enhancing operational efficiency and creating opportunities for growth, funding, and future mergers. It will also improve wholesale services for ISPs and open new revenue streams.

Under the merger, Matthew Hare , CEO of Zzoomm, will become Executive Chairman, and James W. , CEO of FullFibre, will serve as Group CEO. The merger is subject to final documentation execution and regulatory approval, expected early in 2025. Both companies’ management teams have strong track records and will aim to accelerate growth and expand their broadband offerings to consumers, businesses, and wholesale markets.

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New 2025 ICT Channel Initiative and Event...

The UK Partner Week Summit is a free to attend event?for MSP business leaders, sales, marketing, and technical specialists, offering unrivalled opportunities to learn and connect. Learn more at: www.partnerweek.uk

Freshwave optimises Robotarium connectivity with portable 5G network

Freshwave has successfully set up a portable private 5G network at The National Robotarium , located at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland. This network will be used to test and optimize robots for real-world applications. The first application involves Spot, a quadruped robot, which will use real-time data, live video, 3D mapping, and infrared assessments to boost agricultural productivity and sustainability. The 5G network offers high-speed internet in rural areas, enabling seamless connectivity for devices on farms. The low latency of the network supports real-time data analysis, aiding quick decision-making for tasks like crop monitoring and equipment adjustments.

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Channel leaders making sustainability a priority, says research

A new report from Agilitas IT Solutions Limited , in partnership with Censuswide, reveals that sustainability is becoming a key focus for businesses in the UK Channel. Surveying 250 UK Channel businesses with annual turnovers over ￡5 million, the report highlights that three-quarters of respondents scored 7 out of 10 on sustainability. The focus on sustainability is increasing again after a slump in 2022 and 2023.

The report reveals that senior roles, especially CEOs, are more engaged with sustainability than junior managers, with 37% of CEOs confident in their company's sustainable practices. It also points to a shift from carbon offsetting to carbon reduction strategies, with companies prioritizing energy efficiency, process improvements, and eco-friendly suppliers.

36% of respondents have already implemented sustainability initiatives, while another 37% plan to within the next year. Transparency in data collection and reporting is emphasized, and Agilitas has developed a digital dashboard to help businesses track and reduce carbon emissions. CEO Sara Wilkes (She/Her) notes that the report aims to assist businesses in integrating sustainability into their long-term strategies.

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Goodall to spearhead growth strategy at Elevate Wholesale

Elevate? Wholesale has promoted Will Goodall to the role of Elevate Wholesale Director, strengthening the company’s expanding channel division. Will, who joined Elevate Wholesale as Head of Wholesale less than two years ago, has played a key role in developing the business’s partner-first service and support ethos. Under his leadership, the company has significantly grown its partner base, including the onboarding of over 200 partners following the acquisition and rebranding of Luminet in November 2024. Elevate Wholesale's focus on proactive partnerships and community building, led by Will, has been a driving force behind its growth. Andy Tatlock , Chief Revenue Officer, praised Will’s instrumental role in the division's development, emphasizing his relationship-first approach as vital to Elevate Wholesale's future success.

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Brigantia helps combat shadow IT with Uniqkey

Brigantia Partners Limited has partnered with Uniqkey to improve security for UK organizations through enhanced Identity Access Management (IAM). This collaboration allows Brigantia partners to offer clients a comprehensive platform to address issues like shadow IT, unauthorized access, and poor password management. As more companies adopt cloud and SaaS solutions, securing digital environments is vital. Uniqkey’s platform integrates with existing user directories, offering centralized IAM, password management, and full control over employee access. Features include customizable access policies, simplified onboarding/offboarding, and robust security protocols. The solution helps reduce risks associated with password vulnerabilities and unauthorized application use. Brigantia’s MD, Angus Shaw , emphasized the importance of combatting shadow IT and strengthening security offerings for partners.

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Cloud security investment offers channel growth opportunities

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New research from Westcon-Comstor reveals that in 2025, cybersecurity leaders are significantly increasing investment in cloud security, with a focus on Cloud-Native Application Protection Platforms (CNAPP) and other cloud security technologies. The study surveyed 500 senior security executives across five countries and found that 83% plan to invest in CNAPP and similar tools within the next year. Key investment priorities include AI Security Posture Management (AI-SPM), Cloud Security Posture Management (CSPM), and Application Security Posture Management (ASPM).

Channel partners, such as resellers and managed security service providers, are crucial in helping organizations deploy these solutions, with 95% of surveyed leaders working with such partners. Training and enablement were highlighted as the most important benefit, followed by cost-effective solutions and assistance navigating the complex cloud security landscape. Security leaders also seek consolidated security platforms to simplify their tools and improve risk visibility.

This growing demand for cloud security solutions offers significant growth opportunities for channel partners, particularly those who specialize in CNAPP. Daniel Hurel from Westcon-Comstor emphasized that partners who focus on this high-growth area will benefit in the long term.

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