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.
Find businesses for sale here.
If you are looking for an exit, we can help!
The company provides a fantastic opportunity to purchase a well established business that has been owned and operated by the current vendors since 2016. The business is operated from home and offers an excellent first business or a fantastic addition...
LEASEHOLD
For sale a successful IT company, a supplier of hardware, software peripherals and IT support services. It is based in the Midlands, UK although the client base is national. The services are aimed at the corporate, education and small to medium-sized...
Operating internationally, the company offers the development, hosting, and maintenance of electronic document management software. The business provides maintenance contracts, licences, installation, and training for its software.
FREEHOLD
Please choose your settings for this site below. For more information please read our Cookie Policy
These cookies are necessary for our website to function properly and provide you with access to all features.
These are analytics cookies that help us to improve the way our website works.
These are used to improve the functional performance of the website and make it easier for you to use.