Acquisitive Irish cybersecurity business Ekco is expanding rapidly in UK market.
Security-first managed service provider Ekco has acquired Predatech, a Manchester-based cyber security consultancy specialising in penetration testing and assurance services, for an undisclosed sum.
This strategic move, Ekco’s fourth acquisition in 18 months, expands the company’s cyber security capabilities in the UK and establishes a new office in the North-West.
“This acquisition not only strengthens our security capabilities but also gives us presence in Manchester and the North-West, an important hub for innovation and cybersecurity talent”
Founded in 2020 by Jason Johnson and Michael Fotis, Predatech has built a strong reputation for its expertise in CREST-accredited penetration testing, delivering Cyber Essentials & Cyber Essentials Plus assessments, and supporting clients to achieve ISO 27001 certification.
The company has demonstrated impressive year-on-year growth, with over 90% of its 250+ clients returning for repeat engagements.
Strategic enhancement of security services
The acquisition aligns with Ekco’s long-term strategy to enhance its security offerings by integrating advanced cyber security assessment and testing capabilities.
By strengthening Ekco’s penetration testing service – a process that simulates real-world cyberattacks to identify vulnerabilities before malicious actors can exploit them – the company aims to offer a more comprehensive security suite for its customers.
As part of the integration, Predatech will operate as a dedicated security unit within Ekco’s MSSP division, ensuring continuity for existing clients while enabling new opportunities for cross-service collaboration.
“Joining forces with Ekco represents an exciting new chapter for Predatech,” Jason Johnson, co-founder and lead cybersecurity consultant at Predatech, said.
“Our team has worked hard to build a reputation for delivering high-quality cyber security services, and with Ekco’s support, we can scale our capabilities even further. We’re excited to bring our expertise in penetration testing and compliance to Ekco’s growing security portfolio.”
Expanding geographic footprint
Lee Driver, VP of Managed Security Services at Ekco, highlighted the strategic importance of the acquisition.
He said the acquisition demonstrates Ekco’s commitment to investing in cyber security expertise and providing its clients with industry-leading security solutions in an increasingly complex threat landscape.
“Predatech’s expertise in penetration testing and compliance services is a perfect addition to Ekco’s MSSP offering. This acquisition not only strengthens our security capabilities but also gives us presence in Manchester and the North-West, an important hub for innovation and cybersecurity talent. We look forward to working with the Predatech team to deliver best-in-class security solutions to our clients.”
Main image at top: Ekco Founders Eoin Blacklock and Jonathan Crowe
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