Forerunner Technologies Successfully Acquires NEC's Unified Communications Business in the Americas

Forerunner Technologies Expands Its Reach with NEC Acquisition

Recently, Forerunner Technologies, a prominent player in communication solutions, announced the successful acquisition of NEC Corporation's on-premise Unified Communications (UC) business and its associated assets in the Americas. This significant development not only secures the provision of NEC's trusted communication platforms but also reinforces customer confidence in their long-term UC investments.

A New Era for NEC's Unified Communications in the Americas

With this acquisition, Forerunner is now fully responsible for NEC's on-premise UC operations throughout the United States, Canada, and Latin America. This strategic move is complemented by a commitment from NEC Japan to continue software assurance (SWA) and licensing availability until 2030. Additionally, the introduction of new SV9000 hardware set for release in 2025 promises to enhance ongoing reliability for customers and create fresh opportunities for NEC's reseller and partner network.

"Forerunner has served as a reliable partner for NEC, and we are excited to further that legacy by supporting and extending the lifecycle of NEC's on-premise UC technology," stated Paul Diesu, CEO of Forerunner Technologies. He emphasized that this acquisition is not just about maintaining continuity but also about providing customers and partners with a sustainable path forward, ensuring their success.

Commitment to Stability, Innovation, and Choice

Forerunner's proactive approach includes substantial investments aimed at ensuring NEC's customers benefit from long-term support and growth. The acquisition encompasses the takeover of NEC's NTAC support operations, the purchase of all existing NEC UC inventory, and the commitment to further develop key product lines. Furthermore, Forerunner has brought on board NEC's technical support and development personnel, facilitating a smooth transition that preserves the expertise necessary to sustain and advance NEC's UC offerings.

Future Developments for the UNIVERGE 3C Platform

One of the most notable outcomes of this acquisition is the resolution of end-of-life (EOL) concerns surrounding the UNIVERGE 3C platform. Forerunner has reassured customers that this platform will continue to be sold, supported, and enhanced on a global scale. The company is also in the process of developing a pre-packaged SMB Linx version of 3C, which will provide expanded solutions tailored for its partner ecosystem.

This commitment does not stop at support; Forerunner is dedicated to new development avenues and greater flexibility for those customers contemplating transitions to hybrid or cloud environments.

Collaboration with Intermedia for Comprehensive Solutions

As Forerunner fortifies its on-premise UC offerings, its enduring partnership with Intermedia will allow businesses to utilize a wide array of cloud-based services. NEC initially branded Intermedia's services as UNIVERGE BLUE back in early 2020, and by October 2024, Intermedia had assumed control of NEC's cloud communications operations in North America.

This collaboration enables organizations to modernize at a pace that suits their needs while still receiving the reliable service and expertise they have come to expect.

Michael Gold, CEO of Intermedia, expressed enthusiasm about partnering with Forerunner, noting that this alliance guarantees NEC customers and partners access to top-tier on-premise UC solutions complemented by cutting-edge, AI-powered UCaaS and CCaaS options. Businesses now have the freedom to maintain existing systems, implement hybrid solutions, or fully transition to cloud services with confidence in the support available from Forerunner and Intermedia.

Looking Ahead: A Seamless Transition for Customers and Partners

Forerunner is committed to ensuring a seamless transition for NEC's customers and partners. They assure that all ongoing support, licensing, and technical services will remain uninterrupted, with further updates expected in the near future. With the acquisition finalized, Forerunner Technologies stands dedicated to the future of NEC's on-premise UC solutions, providing a flexible, cloud-ready path ahead for businesses across the Americas and beyond.

For additional information or immediate inquiries, please contact Joe Perc at Forerunner Technologies.