In a significant move highlighting the rapid evolution of the cybersecurity sector, Swiss Post has acquired Open Systems, a prominent network and cybersecurity provider based in Zurich. This acquisition marks a pivotal moment in the strategic expansion of Swiss Post’s digital communication services, aimed at enhancing cyber defense mechanisms for businesses across Switzerland. By bringing Open Systems under its wing, Swiss Post aims to leverage cutting-edge technologies to offer more robust and secure digital communication solutions, thus positioning itself more competitively in an increasingly digital and interconnected world.
The integration of Open Systems’ Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) platform into Swiss Post’s existing framework is anticipated to have a significant impact. This platform simplifies the complexities associated with secure global connectivity and network management while providing around-the-clock support worldwide. It also underscores Swiss Post’s commitment to staying ahead in the cybersecurity landscape, where the secure flow of information is paramount. Nicole Burth, CEO of Swiss Post, emphasized that the acquisition would enhance their ability to deliver secure and efficient communication channels to Swiss businesses, reiterating the cultural and strategic synergy between both entities.
Strategic Move by Swiss Post
Swiss Post’s decision to acquire Open Systems aligns with its broader vision to amplify its cybersecurity competencies. By integrating Open Systems’ innovative cloud-based solutions, Swiss Post aims to reinforce its digital communication services. Nicole Burth has stressed the complementary nature of the acquisition, emphasizing that it aligns well with Swiss Post’s goals and will enhance their capability to serve Swiss businesses with efficient, secure communication channels. The SASE platform’s ability to streamline global connectivity and provide robust network management solutions ensures round-the-clock security support, making it a valuable addition to Swiss Post’s offerings.
This acquisition also reflects Swiss Post’s proactive approach to addressing the increasingly complex cybersecurity challenges that businesses face today. As digital transformation continues to accelerate, the secure flow of information remains critical. Open Systems’ technology will play a crucial role in ensuring that Swiss Post can offer its clients secure, reliable, and efficient communication solutions. Enhancing its cybersecurity capabilities through such a strategic acquisition underscores Swiss Post’s commitment to maintaining its competitive edge in an evolving digital landscape.
Open Systems’ Journey Under EQT
Open Systems’ transition from EQT Mid Market Europe fund (EQT) to Swiss Post follows a period of remarkable growth and transformation under EQT’s ownership, showcasing the potent combination of strategic investment and technological innovation. Since 2017, Open Systems has nearly doubled its sales and tripled its EBITDA, reflecting a robust growth trajectory fueled by comprehensive technological upgrades and strategic acquisitions. This period of evolution pivoted Open Systems from being a network-centric managed security services provider to a major player in the SASE arena.
A significant milestone in Open Systems’ evolution was the development of its Managed Extended Detection and Response (MXDR) division. This division, which was later spun off as an independent entity known as Ontinue in 2023, underscored Open Systems’ focus on expanding its cybersecurity capabilities. Ontinue will remain under EQT’s ownership, while Open Systems continues to thrive with a clear focus on its core strengths and cybersecurity features. The significant growth achieved under EQT’s stewardship highlights the critical role of strategic investments in driving technological advancements and market expansion within the cybersecurity sector.
Focus on Technological Innovation
Open Systems’ growth strategy under EQT’s ownership was characterized by a balanced blend of organic growth and strategic acquisitions. One of the most notable acquisitions was that of Sqooba, a Swiss company known for its expertise in data science, artificial intelligence (AI), cloud services, and cybersecurity. This strategic move, spearheaded by Open Systems’ current CEO, Daniel Neuhaus, exemplifies the company’s commitment to technological innovation and market expansion. By integrating Sqooba’s advanced capabilities, Open Systems strengthened its position as a leading SASE provider, enhancing its ability to deliver comprehensive and innovative cybersecurity solutions to its global clients.
Neuhaus attributes much of the company’s success to EQT’s strategic guidance and investments, which catalyzed Open Systems’ evolution into a robust SASE software provider. The development of their cloud-based, software-driven solutions has been integral in helping global clients manage their network and cybersecurity transformations effectively. This commitment to innovation and technological advancement underscores Open Systems’ continued drive to offer state-of-the-art cybersecurity solutions, positioning it as a key player in the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape.
Enhancing Swiss Post’s Cybersecurity Portfolio
Integrating Open Systems into Swiss Post’s portfolio represents a strategic enhancement of its existing cybersecurity services. By capitalizing on Open Systems’ advanced SASE platform, Swiss Post aims to provide more comprehensive and secure digital communication solutions. The synergy between the two entities is evident, as both share a vision of innovation, security, and efficiency in digital communication. Nicole Burth has expressed confidence that this move will further strengthen Swiss Post’s ability to offer secure, efficient communication channels to Swiss businesses, reinforcing the company’s position as a leader in the cybersecurity domain.
Daniel Neuhaus, CEO of Open Systems, views Swiss Post’s investment as a strong endorsement of the company’s strategic vision. He anticipates continued delivery of advanced technology and services, now backed by the robust infrastructure and resources that Swiss Post provides. This partnership is expected to elevate the cybersecurity landscape in Switzerland, offering businesses unparalleled security and connectivity solutions. By integrating Open Systems’ capabilities, Swiss Post is well-positioned to meet the growing cybersecurity challenges faced by businesses in today’s digital age, ensuring that they remain competitive and secure.
The Role of Strategic Investments
In a notable development underscoring the rapid evolution of cybersecurity, Swiss Post has acquired Open Systems, a leading network and cybersecurity provider based in Zurich. This acquisition represents a key milestone in Swiss Post’s strategy to expand its digital communication services and enhance cyber defense for businesses throughout Switzerland. By integrating Open Systems, Swiss Post aims to leverage advanced technologies to provide stronger, more secure digital communication, thus positioning itself more competitively in an increasingly digital world.
The merger will see the integration of Open Systems’ Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) platform into Swiss Post’s existing infrastructure. This platform simplifies global connectivity and network management complexities while providing 24/7 support worldwide. This move highlights Swiss Post’s commitment to staying at the forefront of cybersecurity, ensuring the secure flow of information. CEO Nicole Burth emphasized that the acquisition strengthens their ability to deliver secure, efficient communication channels to Swiss businesses, underscoring the cultural and strategic synergy between the two companies.