If recent events, including this week’s news about the Fuji-Marco partnership, are any indication, the second half of the year promises to be an exciting time. And don’t forget about industry mergers and acquisitions, which have been relatively tame in 2024, also appear to be gaining momentum.
ConnectWise, the managed services software specialist, acquired a pair of companies with roots in data security/BDR (Axcient) and cloud management software for IT (SkyKick). On the dealer side, Metro Sales (MSI) of Burnsville, Minnesota, landed Wisconsin Document Imaging, a 2023 Elite Dealer.
We’ll start on the dealer end. WDI has officially joined the MSI family and will now operate under the Metro Sales Inc. brand, which took effect Aug. 1. This strategic integration marks a significant step forward in MSI’s collective mission to deliver unparalleled service and innovative solutions to clients.
WDI’s current clients will continue to receive the same exceptional service they have come to expect, now with the added resources and support of the MSI network. This merger enhances MSI’s ability to meet the evolving needs of its clients and strengthens its commitment to excellence in every aspect of business.
Both WDI offices will remain in their current locations, ensuring continuity and convenience for clients. All staff members are staying on board, bringing their expertise and dedication to the newly expanded MSI team. This continuity ensures those clients will continue to work with the same trusted professionals they have built relationships with over the years.
“This merger is such a perfect fit! MSI has a fantastic employee-focused culture just like WDI, and they take it a step further being employee-owned,” said Cory Spice, WDI president. “That culture translates to outstanding service to MSI’s clients. Our WDI team is extremely excited to continue to serve our clients and have MSI’s additional resources to help our clients grow.”
The joining of WDI and MSI represents a commitment to providing superior service and a seamless experience for clients. MSI is excited about the opportunities this partnership brings and looks forward to continuing to serve clients with the same dedication and excellence they have come to expect.
ConnectWise-Axcient/SkyKick
ConnectWise, a leading software company dedicated to the success of managed service providers (MSPs), announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Axcient, an award-winning provider of data protection and disaster recovery solutions, with the transaction expected to close in the coming weeks. In addition, ConnectWise has acquired SkyKick, a pioneer and leader in cloud backup and management software. These acquisitions significantly enhance ConnectWise’s cybersecurity and data protection offerings, reinforcing the critical role of data protection as the last line of defense against cyber threats such as ransomware and phishing.
“At ConnectWise, we are committed to delivering innovative solutions that empower MSPs to drive profitability and efficiency,” said Jason Magee, CEO of ConnectWise. “By integrating Axcient and SkyKick into the ConnectWise portfolio, we offer MSPs a complete technology stack that improves data protection and cybersecurity. This integration empowers MSPs to scale their business while safeguarding clients with confidence.”
Key benefits for MSPs include:
Enhanced Data Protection for MSPs and SMB Clients: Data protection is critical to MSPs. Axcient’s trusted Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery (BCDR) solutions and SkyKick’s Microsoft 365 Cloud Backup empower MSPs to fortify cybersecurity and data resilience, ensuring protection against evolving threats.
Comprehensive Technology Offering: MSPs gain access to a complete suite of purpose-built solutions from a single proven provider, including professional services automation (PSA), remote monitoring and management (RMM), cybersecurity, and data protection underpinned by generative AI and robotic process automation (RPA).
Seamless Integration: Axcient’s and SkyKick’s integration into the ConnectWise Asio platform will streamline management, reduce operational complexity, and enable MSPs to focus on growing their businesses.
Ongoing Innovation and Commitment: ConnectWise is dedicated to driving innovation across its expanded portfolio while maintaining strong support for Axcient and SkyKick partners, ensuring an enhanced customer experience.
“Axcient has experienced tremendous growth through our long-standing partnership with ConnectWise,” said Rod Mathews, CEO of Axcient. “Our shared commitment to partner success has created significant alignment between our companies, and this acquisition strengthens our combined offerings. We’re excited about the opportunities ahead to further empower MSPs on a global scale.”
“SkyKick’s mission is to help MSPs worldwide build a more successful cloud business, and we are excited to continue to deliver on that shared vision of partner success with ConnectWise,” said Todd Schwartz, co-CEO of SkyKick.
Added co-CEO Evan Richman, “We’re thrilled to join ConnectWise and accelerate the innovation of our data protection and security products and enable MSPs to protect their customers’ data and applications more efficiently.”
Axcient and SkyKick customers will continue to receive full support for their deployments while existing ConnectWise partners can seamlessly integrate these solutions into their technology stack.
###
About Metro Sales Inc.
Since 1969, MSI has been a leading provider of office technology with a commitment to delivering innovative solutions and exceptional customer service. With a network of experienced professionals and a dedication to excellence, MSI is poised to meet the needs of clients across various industries.
About Wisconsin Document Imaging
With roots dating back to 1963, WDI has been a trusted provider of office equipment for many years, known for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. As part of the MSI team, WDI will continue to offer the same high-quality service with the added benefits of MSI’s resources and support.
About ConnectWise
ConnectWise is a leading IT management and business automation software provider dedicated to helping MSPs manage their businesses, protect clients, and grow efficiently. The ConnectWise Asio platform, with its modern UX, open APIs, and extensive automation and AI capabilities, empowers MSPs with the tools they need to succeed in today’s competitive landscape.
About Axcient
Axcient is an award-winning provider of Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery (BCDR) solutions, offering advanced cloud-based data protection services that ensure businesses can recover quickly from disruptions. Axcient’s commitment to product innovation and strong partner support has earned it a trusted reputation among MSPs.
About SkyKick
SkyKick, headquartered in Seattle, is an award-winning global provider of cloud management software for IT service providers, with additional offices in Amsterdam and Sydney. Trusted by thousands of customers worldwide, SkyKick’s products help migrate, back up, manage, and secure customers in the cloud.
