Hitachi Data Systems plans to acquire Shoden Data Systems (Shoden), a leading provider of data center technology solutions in South Africa and across the sub-Saharan African continent subjected to approval from respective authorities in the African countries in which Hitachi Data Systems and Shoden conduct operations.
“We are very excited about the prospect of joining the Hitachi Data Systems family,” said, Marc Trevenen, Managing Director, Shoden Data Systems. “We are proud of the proven expertise, reputation and local knowledge that we have developed over the past 11 years. The strength of Hitachi Data Systems solutions has been an integral part of this journey. Joining forces with Hitachi Data Systems would be a win-win situation for our employees, our partners and our customers, and will enable our organization to continue to develop and prosper.”
Hitachi Data Systems has enjoyed a successful 11 year partnership with Shoden, and Shoden’s growth over that time period has enabled it to capture a significant share of the rapidly growing South African enterprise data storage market. Headquartered in Johannesburg, Shoden has also established subsidiaries in the UK and in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania as part of its continued expansion in sub-Saharan Africa.
The proposed acquisition by Hitachi Data Systems will form a key element of the company’s growth strategy throughout Africa. As part of Hitachi Data Systems, Shoden would remain committed to its mission of providing “the data center advantage” to customers by understanding their business challenges and implementing optimized IT solutions coupled with excellent service and support. Shoden designs, provisions, deploys and supports products and technologies that simplify and optimize data center environments to many enterprise customers in the region, including major banks, telecommunication companies and retail companies.
“Our proposed acquisition of Shoden is the natural next step in a relationship that has blossomed throughout the years. Shoden has achieved great success and leadership in South Africa, creating a strong customer base and building a skilled and motivated team. We share the same values and commitment to excellence and innovation. Together, as a united company, we are committed to continuing the outstanding support given to all of our customers and to continue to grow across Africa.” said Niels Svenningsen, Senior VP and GM, Hitachi Data Systems EMEA.
