UCG Technologies (UCG), a global information technology services firm, has acquired the IBM i Series Solutions business of E-Safe Technologies LLC (formerly Premier Technologies, Inc.) a Pittsburgh-based IT service provider. Terms were not disclosed.

The acquisition will accelerate UCG’s growth in the Midwest as it continues its transition and expansion from a regional integrator into a full-service provider of backup, disaster recovery (DR), enterprise applications and security training with a focus on the IBM POWER8 Systems platform. UCG now has customers in 31 states, Canada, Caribbean and Europe.

“We have long been impressed by E-Safe’s (Premier) strength in the Pittsburgh market for POWER8 solutions,” said Jim Kandrac, founder and CEO of UCG Technologies. “Frankly, they owned the Pittsburgh market. This acquisition not only opens the door to hundreds of accounts, but gives those customers access to a broader range of software and services. It’s a win for us, a win for E-safe and a win for their customers.”

E-Safe’s customer base includes more than 250 companies in the greater Pittsburgh market and four other states in the Great Lakes area.

E-Safe will focus its resources on the burgeoning computer network maintenance and IT managed services market. Rob Wise, who was previously IBM Practice Manager for E-Safe, will join UCG where he will work with UCG Vice President Mike Powall and Operations Manager Gina Creager to ensure a smooth and successful migration for E-Safe customers.   All current consulting, service and maintenance agreements will be honored by E-Safe and fulfilled by UCG Technologies.

“Success in the IT services business is all about focus,” said Tim Steinour, President and Owner of E-Safe Technologies. “We foresee tremendous growth in our new lines of business, so we’re doubling down on those opportunities. In UCG we’ve found a partner who can not only ensure our customers world-class support but can bring additional products to the table.”