Onecom buys Hampshire-based Matrix IT to expand Microsoft and managed services, eyes more deals in 2026

LDC-backed IT services provider Onecom has acquired Hampshire-based Matrix IT, a move the company says will strengthen its Microsoft capabilities and deepen its presence across the South Coast. Chief executive Darren Ridge said the purchase boosts Onecom’s Microsoft, cybersecurity and managed services offerings and adds scale in both headcount and customers.

He added that Matrix IT’s experienced local team enhances Onecom’s route to market in the region and supports its ambition to deliver end-to-end IT services at scale. The deal brings over 45 people into Onecom, with about two-thirds focused on service delivery.

Ridge said there are no immediate changes planned to Matrix IT’s leadership team or day-to-day operations. Onecom intends to integrate the business within its IT managed services capabilities, and no decision has yet been made on rebranding as integration takes priority.

Looking ahead, Ridge said Onecom plans to remain active in the market and hinted at further acquisitions in 2026 to expand its capabilities. Future targets, he said, are expected to be UK-based businesses serving customers nationwide with strong capabilities across business communications and IT services, including connectivity, UCaaS and CCaaS, cloud services, managed IT and cybersecurity.

Cultural alignment, technical depth, customer quality and the ability to scale are key factors in its decision-making. The Matrix IT deal is Onecom’s 14th acquisition since 2020. Last year, it purchased Gradwell Communications to bolster its communications and hosted voice solutions portfolio.

Previous buyouts include Russell Telecom, IP Office, 9 Retail, 9 Partners, Daly Systems, Excalibur Communications, On-Site Connect Limited, IMS Technology, Solution IP, Olive Communications, Nice Network and Glamorgan Telecom Group. Onecom’s acquisition drive began after it secured £100 million in funding from LDC in 2019.

Following that investment, the company appointed Christian Craggs as its first director of M&A and strategy, a role he has held since.