Equistone acquires cloud computing operator, Adista

Equistone Partners Europe (“Equistone”), today announces its acquisition of cloud computing operator Adista (“Adista” or “the Company”). Following the transaction, Equistone will hold a majority stake in the company, alongside founding management Gilles and Pascal Caumont, regional investment fund GEI (a current shareholder which will reinvest in the company) and Institut Lorrain de Participation (a long-term shareholder).  Forty of the Company’s managers will also participate in the transaction, investing in the group to become minority shareholders.

Founded in 1981 in Maxéville, France, Adista is a telecommunications networks and cloud computing services provider to corporates and local governments. Adista supplies connections to High- and Very-High-Speed networks, predominantly using fibre optics, as well as satellite, radio-relay, mobile and copper networks. 

Adista provides a bespoke offering for internet access to virtual private networks, with a broad range of services including: IP telephony, unified communications, videoconferencing, internet filtering and security services. The Company helps its clients take advantage of the “IT as a Service” model by supporting the digitalisation of their commercial activities including facilities management, joint management, application hosting, contingency plans, communication and collaboration services. 

Today, Adista has 330 employees in 24 local branches across France. Its technical expertise, quick response time and flexibility have won it a diverse client portfolio across the public and private sectors. Adista has enjoyed strong growth for many years, with sales rising from €30 million in 2012 to €75 million the financial year 2016. With Equistone’s support, the Company aims to double its sales over the next five years. 

The completion of this transaction is subject to approval from competition authorities. 

Gilles Caumont, CEO of Adista commented: “We are delighted that Equistone will be by our side as we continue to build on the strong headway our company has made. This support will help us pursue our growth strategy in a booming market. Adista aims to become a leading supplier to companies and local governments, offering unique and innovative services to guide them through their digital transformations.”  

Guillaume Jacqueau, Managing Partner of Equistone Partners Europe said: “Adista is one of the few players in this market to have developed strong technical skills and a comprehensive offering in both ‘network access’ and ‘cloud computing’ market segments. Thanks to its tailor-made services for small businesses, as well as its local sales approach and high level of service, Adista stands out from its competition as its low contract turnover clearly shows. Adista is ideally positioned in a fast-growing market, and we are delighted to be supporting its development projects alongside company management.” 

Frédéric Dubuisson, Managing Director of GEI: “We are proud to have supported Adista’s transformation into a structured, nationwide player over the past four years. Throughout this growth, we have had the opportunity to fulfil our role as a shareholder, providing the firm with advice and support during the implementation of external growth initiatives and certain key decisions.”