EQT divests Open Systems to Swiss Post, boosting its cybersecurity capabilities. Under EQT, Open Systems saw significant growth and expanded its expertise.
EQT is pleased to announce that the EQT Mid Market Europe fund (“EQT”), together with its co-shareholders, has agreed to sell Open Systems (“Company”) to Swiss Post.
Headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, Open Systems delivers network and cyber security capabilities in a single cloud-based platform known as Secure Access Service Edge (SASE). Open Systems’ innovative SASE Experience eliminates the complexity of secure global connectivity and network management while providing seamless global 24×7 support. The Company is pivotal in supporting global customer network and cyber security transformation by offering a fully integrated, single-pane-of-glass cloud and software platform and supporting services.
EQT acquired a majority stake in Open Systems in 2017. During EQT’s ownership, the Company almost doubled its sales and more than tripled its EBITDA while making substantial investments into its technology platform and transforming from a network-focused managed security services provider to a leading SASE player with extensive cyber security capabilities. Open Systems also built a Managed Extended Detection and Response (MXDR) division, which was carved out in 2023 and now operates as a standalone company under Ontinue, which EQT will retain. Organic growth was complemented by three strategic add-on acquisitions, including Sqooba, a Swiss provider of data science, AI, cloud, and cyber services founded by the current Open Systems CEO, Daniel Neuhaus.
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As part of Swiss Post, Open Systems will continue its growth journey under Daniel Neuhaus’s leadership. With the acquisition, Swiss Post strengthens its role as a provider of digital communication services by increasing its competencies and know-how to support digitally connected businesses in Switzerland.
Daniel Neuhaus, CEO of Open Systems: “I would like to thank EQT for their support over the years and hands-on involvement in our development. Swiss Post’s investment validates our long-term strategy to become a leading SASE software provider with the best customer experience. With Swiss Post, we have found a sustainable partner in Switzerland who shares our values and will support us in continuously delivering best-in-class technology and services to our customers while continuing to drive innovation.”
Philipp Woerner, Director within EQT Private Equity’s Advisory Team: “We have been continuously impressed by Open Systems’ track record of technological innovation in the network and cyber security space. Thanks to the dedication and commitment of the management team led by Daniel, Open Systems delivers attractive technology and services from Switzerland to its customers globally. We could not have imagined a better future home for Open Systems than Swiss Post to support continuing the strong development.”
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Nicole Burth, CEO of Swiss Post Communication Services, said: “Open Systems strongly complements our existing offerings in cybersecurity. The Company is an excellent cultural fit and supports our strategy to bring cybersecurity to our Swiss customers. The unique cloud security solutions Open Systems provides make businesses’ networks and communications more efficient and secure.”
