Wireless Innovation acquired by Horizon Capital

Wireless Innovation acquired by Lyceum Capital – kicking off £20M M&A programme

Wireless Innovation, a leading Gloucestershire-based managed services provider in machine-to-machine (M2M) communications and the internet of things (IoT) connectivity, has been acquired by private equity firm Lyceum Capital. The deal marks the beginning of a £20 million buy-and-build strategy for Lyceum, targeting growth in the rapidly evolving M2M and IoT markets.

A Leader in global connectivity

Headquartered near Gloucester UK, Wireless Innovation has made a name for itself in providing reliable M2M data connectivity through partnerships with satellite and cellular providers.

The company supports clients in over 100 countries across various industries, including renewables, electricity, water, oil & gas, telematics, aviation, and marine. Prestigious clients like EDF Energy, Iberdrola, and Scottish Water rely on Wireless Innovation’s integrated services.

Wireless Innovation’s expertise in management of cellular and satellite connectivity has made it a trusted partner in mission-critical industries. Now, with Lyceum's backing, the company is poised to scale up its operations and explore new opportunities for expansion.

Strategic leadership to drive growth

As part of the acquisition, Edward Spurrier, former CEO of Alternative Networks, has joined Wireless Innovation as chairman. Alongside Phil Rouse, the company’s founder and CEO, Spurrier will spearhead the acquisition strategy aimed at scaling the business. This partnership is expected to accelerate growth both organically and through strategic acquisitions.

Phil Rouse expressed his excitement about the new partnership, saying, “Over the past 13 years, we have built a unique connectivity platform that seamlessly integrates cellular and satellite services. After years of consistent double-digit organic growth, I am thrilled to be working with Lyceum to continue our growth strategy and take it to the next level.”

Lyceum’s investment vision

Simon Hitchcock, a partner at Lyceum Capital, explained the firm’s interest in Wireless Innovation: “The M2M and IoT connectivity market presents a significant opportunity due to its growth and fragmentation. Wireless Innovation’s excellent connectivity platform, developed over years of investment, makes it an ideal partner. We look forward to working with Phil to scale the business both through organic growth and acquisitions.”

Joining Simon Hitchcock on the board are Luke Kingston, Tom Maizels, and Geoff Neville, who will help guide the next phase of Wireless Innovation’s growth.

M&A expertise

Lyceum Capital’s advisory team included Forward Corporate Finance (financial advisors) and Pinsent Mason (legal advisors). Wireless Innovation’s shareholders were represented by James Pugh.

Post-merger expansion and rebranding

Since the acquisition, Wireless Innovation has made significant strides in expanding its product offerings. In 2018, the company acquired Rock Seven, known for its innovative RockAIR, RockSTAR, and RockFLEET products. This was followed by the 2019 acquisition of Ground Control, a renowned name in satellite technology with standout products like the Toughsat mobile satellite system and the popular portable satellite internet hotspot, affectionately known as “The Football.”

In 2021, Wireless Innovation underwent a major transformation, rebranding itself as Ground Control, unifying its growing product line under a single, globally recognized brand.

About Ground Control (formerly Wireless Innovation)

Founded in Gloucestershire, UK, Ground Control is a global leader in M2M data connectivity solutions, offering integrated cellular and satellite services to businesses across a range of critical industries. With a focus on providing reliable, cutting-edge technology, the company serves clients in more than 100 countries.

About Lyceum Capital

Lyceum Capital is a leading private equity firm focused on driving growth through strategic investments and acquisitions. Their £20 million buy-and-build strategy in M2M and IoT communications marks their commitment to expanding in high-potential markets.

Client feedback

“There is, no doubt, that without his help and experience that such a successful transaction would not have been achieved.

"James’ strengths at understanding our business, and his ability to communicate with all board members gave everyone enormous confidence and empathy in everything that James did for us at every stage.

"Like many such M&A deals, it got a bit fraught for us at times, but his prior business experience, substantial M&A knowledge and good humour ensured that we got over the line.”

Simon Tremlett, co-founder & shareholder

Wireless Innovation

"James spent many hours building relationships with all the shareholders, which ultimately meant that he had full understanding of what a “good” deal for all of us looked like.

"Those relationships also meant that he was able to manage different personalities through at times stressful periods.

"His ability to formulate and explain bidding strategies and manage all our expectations, and his seemingly ever-presence, gave us huge confidence that we were in safe hands throughout the whole process.

"It is certainly felt by us all that James substantial knowledge and personality ensured that the transaction was completed successfully.”

Jeff Martin, co-founder and shareholder

Wireless Innovation

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