Situation
In March 2000, ARC Associates incorporated HighSpeed Office Ltd to be an integrated communications provider serving business customers in multi-occupancy office buildings across metropolitan markets in Europe. HighSpeed Office provides a comprehensive single source communications solution for its customers including high speed, always-on internet access, local and long distance voice services, conference calling, enhanced messaging, private voice and data networking, web site hosting, business broadcast television and many other enhanced communications services like application service provision.
Approach
As a start-up business, ARC Associates identified strategic partnerships as a key driver of strengthening the capabilities of HighSpeed Office during its launch phase. Having developed the business and financial plan, ARC Associates approached Marconi to be a strategic partner to HighSpeed Office to accelerate its deployment of in-building networks.
Marconi provides HighSpeed Office with systems design, equipment procurement, network rollout project management installation and commissioning services, as well as network equipment.
The Transaction
On 23rd November 2000, Marconi purchased a 5% strategic minority shareholding in HighSpeed Office on undisclosed financial terms. ARC Associates advised both HighSpeed Office and Marconi on the transaction.