Cambridge Helpdesk

Finding the right home for a growing IT services business

Founded in 2006 and based in Chatteris, Cambridge Helpdesk is an established provider of IT support and technology solutions to businesses.

The company has developed extensive expertise across managed IT services, cybersecurity, telecommunications and cloud-based solutions, building long-standing client relationships through its focus on dependable technical support and responsive services.

Having successfully grown the business over almost two decades, Directors Stuart Brown and Danny Brown began considering the future of Cambridge Helpdesk and wanted to identify the right partner to take the company into its next chapter.

The shareholders were looking for an acquirer that could provide the business with a strong future while achieving a specific value for the company they had built.

“Annie Shiel & KBS were extremely helpful and professional throughout the process. As this was a first time for us, it was very daunting but we were in good hands.”

Stuart Brown, Director, Cambridge Helpdesk

Managing strong buyer interest to secure the right outcome

The shareholders instructed KBS Corporate to manage the sale process, with Annie Shiel, Associate Director, leading the transaction.

The marketing campaign generated a high level of interest from prospective acquirers, resulting in multiple offers and a competitive negotiation process.

KBS managed the process on behalf of the shareholders, overseeing discussions with multiple interested parties, and providing commercial guidance throughout the negotiations.

With several potential buyers involved, careful project management was essential to ensure the shareholders could assess their options while maintaining momentum and working towards the desired outcome.

KBS Corporate also provided technical guidance on key elements of the transaction, including deal adjustments, working capital considerations, and document reviews.

Throughout the process, Annie remained a consistent point of contact for Stuart and Danny, providing ongoing support and helping them navigate the complexities of their first business sale.

“I simply have nothing bad whatsoever to report. From the initial call to the follow-up post-completion, the team at KBS have been first class.

“The whole team have been helpful, understanding and acted for us like it was their own business. I cannot recommend KBS, especially Annie Shiel, enough. Absolutely first class.”

Danny Brown, Director, Cambridge Helpdesk

A competitive process identifies the right strategic partner

The sale attracted significant interest from the market, with several prospective buyers progressing through the process and a number of offers being negotiated.

The competitive environment allowed the shareholders to carefully consider the opportunities available and identify an acquirer that could deliver the right combination of value and strategic fit.

Tela Technology ultimately emerged as the preferred partner, offering a strong platform for Cambridge Helpdesk to continue its development as part of a larger technology group.

The acquisition also represented a natural fit between the two businesses, with Tela’s focus on IT managed services, cybersecurity and connectivity complementing Cambridge Helpdesk’s existing capabilities.

The transaction provided the shareholders with the outcome they had been seeking, while giving Cambridge Helpdesk a clear path for continued growth under new ownership.

Strengthening Tela Technology’s regional IT capabilities

For Tela Technology, the acquisition of Cambridge Helpdesk represents an important step in its wider buy-and-build strategy.

The deal strengthens Tela’s regional capabilities in managed IT services and cybersecurity, while adding further technical expertise to its growing portfolio of technology businesses.

Cambridge Helpdesk also expands Tela’s geographic reach, supporting its ambition to provide unified, high-growth technology solutions to customers across the UK.

The acquisition continues Tela Technology’s productive relationship with KBS Corporate, following its acquisition of MJS IT Services, another business advised by KBS.

“The acquisition of Cambridge Helpdesk represents a pivotal milestone in Tela Technology’s ‘buy and build’ strategy.

“This deal not only strengthens our geographical footprint but also adds deep technical expertise that aligns perfectly with our mission to provide unified ‘high-growth technology solutions’ across the UK.

“I would like to extend my thanks to Annie Shiel and the team at KBS Corporate. Navigating the complexities of M&A requires a partner who truly understands both the numbers and the cultural fit. Annie’s service was exemplary – she provided the structure and professional insight necessary to ensure a smooth transition that benefited all parties involved.”

Shez Cheema, CEO, Tela Technology