Wed, 23 Jun 2021 | BUSINESS SALE
Smoothwall, a Leeds-based safeguarding tech firm backed by Tenzing, has acquired fellow EdTech monitoring solutions provider eSafe Global Limited. The acquisition of the Salford-based business comes at a time of increased M&A in the educational technology (EdTech) sector, on the back of a surge in remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.
eSafe’s technology, which includes TripleLock security software, is used by schools throughout the UK. Together with Smoothwall’s monitoring software, the firms protect close to 1 million students at more than 1,400 UK schools.
Maven Capital Partners was advised by Grant Thornton on its exit from eSafe, with the adviser identifying Smoothwall as the ideal strategic partner for the company’s future growth.
Founded more than 20 years ago, Smoothwall has grown to be one of the UK’s leading providers of safeguarding technology to the education sector. Its real-time web filter is the UK’s number one filter in schools and it also provides digital safeguarding record management, among other solutions.
Commenting on the acquisition of eSafe, Smoothwall CEO Georg Ell said: “The acquisition comes at a pivotal time with both the UK Safer Internet Centre (UKSIC) and Ofsted Abuse Review highlighting the need for improved digital safeguarding provision at all levels. We thank all eSafe and Smoothwall customers for their continuous support and look forward to exciting times ahead.”
Tenzing founder and Co-Managing Partner Christian Hamilton commented: “The acquisition of eSafe is an important step in UK education as the need to protect children online becomes more and more critical. This investment strengthens Smoothwall’s position in the fast-growing monitoring market and enhances the company’s offering to its loyal customer base in schools around the world.”
Read more about M&A in the EdTech sector.
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