As of the 1st June 2018, WePurpose Technology acquired leading web development business Lanetech. The acquisition will enable WePurpose Technology to diversify the IT services it provides to businesses across the Highlands and Islands and take on more apprentices to train in web development.
Inverness based Lanetech is a well-established business that has been serving clients across the UK for over 10 years under the leadership of David Powell. With more than 60 clients including well-known brands such as Craggan Outdoors and Keltic Seafare, Lanetech provides website design and development; internet services and email newsletter set-up and design.
The acquisition by WePurpose Technology, also based in Inverness, represents a significant milestone for the social enterprise which already offers managed Microsoft Office 365 services; managed cyber resilience; Cyber Essentials; Webroot anti-virus, and Microsoft Office 365 plans. The deal, which will have a carefully managed transition period of 18 months, has already led to the appointment of apprentice Aaron Williams.
Aaron was introduced to WePurpose Technology through the Barnardo’s Works programme. Having spent four days a week with David Massey and the team for eight weeks, managing director David and mentor Neil Huggan were so impressed with his attitude and approach to client service that he has been offered an apprenticeship specialising in web development.
Commenting on the acquisition David Massey explained: “It is incredible to think that in just two years since starting WePurpose Technology we are now acquiring a highly respected web development business that will enable us to take on more apprentices. I am delighted to be in a position to hire Aaron and hope that he will be joined by another apprentice very soon who will also specialise in web development. I am looking forward to working closely with David at Lanetech and getting to know the clients and understanding how we can best support them. Initially our focus will be on managing a smooth transition with Lanetech’s clients. Ultimately, we hope to offer web development services to new businesses, mainly targeting small businesses.”
David Powell, owner of Lanetech added: “I am excited about the future. The Apprentice Store and Lanetech are the perfect match of the old and the new kids on the block. It is really very rewarding to have the opportunity to support the future talent of the IT sector in the Highlands by working closely with David, Neil and their apprentices to support our well-established client base. Although the acquisition gives me the opportunity to stand down and concentrate on our www.e-availability.com clients, it also gives me the chance to give something back to the sector that I have worked in for most of my career. The next 18 months will be very exciting.”
WePurpose Technology is building up its client base across the Highlands and beyond with its unique model where companies from IT and non-IT sectors can purchase ‘Apprentice Days’ at a competitive rate. This gives them access to apprentices, who are supported by mentors with years of industry experience
