Bechtle : Integrates Ulbel & Freidorfer System House.

Neckarsulm/Graz, 9 May 2017 - Bechtle has acquired Graz-based systems integrator Ulbel & Freidorfer, reinforcing its position as an IT solutions and service provider on the Austrian market. Ulbel & Freidorfer, which currently employs 41 people, will fully merge its activities with Bechtle IT Austria's operations. In 2016, the company generated some EUR 23m in revenue. Its current managing directors, Otmar Freidorfer and Martin Klock, will continue to hold senior positions at the Bechtle system house.

'Ulbel & Freidorfer has been established on the market for decades and brings to the table close-knit, effective teams and highly-trained IT specialists serving customers from all industries with outstanding results,' states Robert Absenger, Managing Director, Bechtle IT System House Austria. 'In addition, their excellent vendor ties align perfectly with our status as a strong partner for leading manufacturers.'

Founded in 1989, Ulbel & Freidorfer offers predominantly IT infrastructure and collaboration solutions, supplemented with outsourcing, client and other services. Bechtle expects this acquisition to unlock synergies in its traditional systems integration business and is expanding its operations in the regions of Styria and Carinthia substantially. In addition to implementing projects for corporate customers, Ulbel & Freidorfer has been an established supplier for the Austrian government for many years. The Bechtle IT System House Austria is active throughout the country, with around 130 employees at its offices in Vienna, St Pölten, Graz, Innsbruck and Götzis. After the merger with Ulbel & Freidorfer, it is one of the largest systems integrators in Austria.

'The decision to join forces with Bechtle has put us on track for a long-term, profitable future. For our customers and employees, this means stability, security and an expanded portfolio. We look forward to this journey together as part of an established group in Austria and Europe,' concur Otmar Freidorfer and Martin Klock, managing directors of Ulbel & Freidorfer GmbH.

The acquisition remains subject to the approval of the relevant competition authorities. Both parties have agreed to keep the acquisition price confidential.