| Mon 28 May 2001, 0:00 | | Dimension Data Learning Solutions Acquires Denver- |
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DIMENSION DATA LEARNING SOLUTIONS ACQUIRES DENVER-BASED CCTI FOR $11m
DIMENSION DATA Learning Solutions (DDLS), the IT training subsidiary of the
London-listed global network services and i-Commerce solutions provider,
Dimension Data Holdings plc (Dimension Data or the `Group'), has acquired
Denver-based Colorado Computer Training Institute (CCTI) for US $11m.
Established in 1991, CCTI is a US leader in the delivery of certified Cisco,
Information Security and Project Management curriculum. CCTI's development
group produces quality customised courseware and distance learning solutions
for the corporate arena. The company is headquartered in Denver and operates
in 25 major cities including Boston, Phoenix, Kansas City, San Jose,
Minneapolis, Chicago, Washington DC, and Philadelphia. Among CCTI's
corporate clients are KPMG, AT&T, Lucent, Worldcom, Qwest, Level Three
Communications, Boeing and Time Warner.
CCTI with 12 month revenues to December 2000 of US$ 11m has grown at a
compound annual growth rate of 25% over the last five years.
Dimension Data Learning Solutions focuses on training and development in the
Internet, data networking, software development and management arenas with
operations in Asia, Australia, Europe, South Africa and now the US. DDLS
provides internationally certified, tailored courses that are designed to
deliver high-end solutions and value. In addition DDLS offers services
designed to assist individuals and corporate clients to select the correct
training to meet clearly defined needs.
The acquisition, effective 1 June 2000 will be settled with a 60% up front
cash payment. The balance is to be settled in a combination of cash and
shares over the next 16 months depending on performance.
Dimension Data Learning Solutions MD Marilyn Chaplin says that DDLS acquired
CCTI to grow the DDLS business globally and provide support to system
integrators in the US, enabling the Group to offer customers a complete
solution.
"CCTI's training focus on networking solutions including Cisco, security and
project management complements DDLS's existing operations in Europe, South
Africa, Asia and Australia. CCTI's wide footprint in the US and existing
infrastructure establishes DDLS as a true global player," explains Chaplin.
"According to IDC, there was a shortage of some 660 000 networking
professionals in 2000. This number is expected to grow threefold by 2004.
IDC also estimates that in 2000, one of out every three networking job
openings was not filled.
"In addition, IDC states that whether the US economy continues to slow or
not, both it and the global economy will continue to suffer IT labour
shortages," says Chaplin.
Jon Carmain, CEO of CCTI says the company was looking to expand and become a
global player.
"We were impressed with Dimension Data's global presence and skills set. By
becoming part of the Dimension Data Group, we will realise our objective of
growing the company internationally," he says.
Carmain and CCTI's top management have signed contracts of between 18 months
and three years to remain with the Dimension Data Group.
Bill Strang, CEO Dimension Data Network Services US says that in line with
the Group's focus on people, processes and technology, the acquisition of
CCTI will enable Dimension Data US to offer customers a more comprehensive
service offering.
"In addition, Dimension Data Network Services US will utilise DDLS's
training facilities to enhance our own professional and technical skills -
which, in turn, will translate into superior service for our customers," he
concludes.
ends
Note to editors
Dimension Data Holdings plc, is a leading global network services and
interactive commerce solutions provider. Founded in 1983, as a specialist
supplier of technology and services, the Group's strategy has evolved with
the emergence of the intelligent network as the most important enabler in
business today.
Dimension Data is uniquely positioned to address the integration and
connectivity requirements of corporations through its global presence
combined with its expertise and extensive skills base in the e-business
solutions environment.
Listed on the London Stock Exchange, Dimension Data is a constituent of the
FTSE 100 index. The Group employs approximately 12 000 people and operates
in over 30 countries on six continents.
Dimension Data has achieved a three-year compound annual growth rate in US
dollars of 73% in revenue and 36% in basic earnings per share. For more
information, please go to www.didata.com .
Contacts
Dimension Data
Marilyn Chaplin, Managing Director, Dimension Data Learning Solutions
+27 11 709 1623
Adrian Liddiard, Vice President US Business Development
+27 11 709 1000
Samantha Presbury, Public Relations,
+27 11 709 1292
Louise Taylor, UK Corporate Communications
+ 44 20 7659 1600
CCTI
Jon Carmain, CEO, CCTI
+1 303 729 1101
Financial Dynamics
Giles Sanderson/James Melville-Ross
+44 20 7831 3113
This and a selection of key Dimension Data press releases are available on
www.pressfirst.com and a comprehensive list of press releases can be found
on the company's web site www.didata.com
