UPSTACK, a platform that transforms the way businesses design and select internet infrastructure solutions, has acquired Universal Telecommunications Inc., a full-service telecom agency, and its sister company, Universal Solutions Providers LLC, an IT managed services provider (MSP), collectively known as Universal, the Communications Company. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Universal, based in Deerfield Beach, Fla., provides private and public sector businesses with IT, network and voice solutions backed by professional project management and 24/7 support.
“Universal is one of the few organizations to deliver on the promise of telecom and IT convergence for their business clients. What’s more, they’ve been doing so for a decade,” said UPSTACK Founder and CEO Christopher Trapp (pictured). “They’re true innovators. That, along with their commitment to unparalleled service, make Universal an exciting addition to the UPSTACK team.”
As part of the investment, Universal’s Managing Member Mervyn Gervis will join UPSTACK as a partner with the company’s additional leadership team members, Phil Liberty and Judi Mitchell, slated to serve in senior roles within the new organization.
Gervis was drawn into a telecom agency opportunity as a second career after immigrating to the United States from South Africa. He founded Universal Telecommunications in 1996 as a long-distance agent. He brought in Liberty and Mitchell to the team for their experience in selling local telephone services to businesses. Today, the company provides a range of voice, data and cloud-based communications services.
In 2012, to meet the needs of several existing clients, the company’s leaders launched Universal Solution Providers to deliver managed IT services. USP offers server to desktop management, cyber and network security, cloud IT and data center services.
After two successful careers, Gervis began exploring ways to exit the business while creating continuity for the company, employees and customers. He met with potential investors and was drawn to UPSTACK’s vision, success and similar dedication to customer service.
The investment in Universal is part of UPSTACK’s strategy to accelerate the growth of its industry-transforming platform, which combines leading internet infrastructure advisors with proprietary software and support resources.
For more information about the UPSTACK Advisory Partnership, visit upstack.com/for-advisors or contact partners@upstack.com.
