Established in 2006, Aspire Technology Solutions (Aspire) is one of the largest IT managed service and cyber security providers in the UK. Head-quartered in Gateshead, Aspire employ more than 250 people and has a turnover of £40m.
The company delivers leading technology solutions across cyber security, cloud, connectivity, managed services and unified communications to help customers drive real business benefits.
LDC backed the management team in 2022, with a significant minority investment in a transaction that valued the business at £85m. LDC is now helping the management team to pursue an ambitious organic and acquisitive growth strategy to expand its UK footprint and suite of services. In the same year, it received an ‘excellent’ rating for its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) performance from Sustainable Advantage, one of the UK’s leading energy and waste consultants.
Working with a leading investor that’s right on our doorstep in the North East was really important to us. LDC has an extensive history of supporting businesses just like ours to grow.”
Expanding its services and footprint
Aspire completed the acquisition of Cloud Cover IT, a dynamic managed service provider based in Glasgow. This strategic move underscores Aspire’s commitment to expanding its presence in the Scottish market.
In 2024, Aspire announced it will be moving into a larger city centre office, located in the heart of the city’s vibrant commercial district. Aspire’s headcount surpassed 280 in August 2024, with a notable 35% increase in Glasgow alone and additional recruitment planned to support its Glasgow operations. The new office will provide a more dynamic and collaborative environment for the team, aligning with Aspire’s commitment to innovation and excellence.
The announcement of this office move, coincided with significant growth for Aspire, with the business reporting a 23.6% increase in revenue, reaching almost £40million for the year ending 29 February 2024. In the same year, Aspire invested £1.7m to advance its private cloud technology stack and expand its connectivity network and expanded its customer base expanded from 1,700 to 1,900 clients.
As Aspire looks ahead to FY25, the company is poised to further strengthen its position as a leading managed services provider and cyber security expert in Glasgow, with the new office serving as a central hub for its Scottish operations.
We remain focused on our mission of putting technology to work to drive customer innovation, efficiency, and growth.”
Raising the ambition bar
Featured in Commsdealer, Aspire CEO Chris Fraser outlines plans to hit £50m revenue based on a set of strategic principles that remain unchanged from the day the MSP was established.
Read MoreAwards
Entrepreneur of the Year (Chris Fraser)
North East Dealmakers Awards 2024
SME Sustainability Award
North East Automotive Alliance Awards 2023
100 fastest-growing technology companies in the North of England and Scotland (No. 99)
Northern Tech Awards 2022