Hansen Tech Acquires Sigma Systems for £89.4 m – CEO Explains Strategic Benefits

Andrew Hansen, CEO of Hansen Technologies, explains how the cash‑only acquisition of Canada’s Sigma Systems for CAN$157 million (≈£89.4 m) strengthens the company’s position across telecom, pay‑TV and energy verticals.

Why now? In an exclusive interview with IoT Now, Sigma CEO Tim Spencer shares the strategic drivers behind the deal and what the future holds for the Toronto‑based digital‑transformation software provider.

Deal specifics
• Price: CAN$157 million (≈£89.43 m).
• Closing date: 31 May 2019.
• Structure: Full cash purchase of all equity holders, including Birch Hill Equity Partners.

Key motivations for the acquisition

• Combined market strength – Two profitable firms now serve over 600 customers with 1,600 employees, expanding our addressable market beyond telecom into energy and utilities.
• Complementary product portfolio – The merged suite covers end‑to‑end solutions: create, sell, deliver, bill, and support, with no significant overlap.
• Talent and expertise – The deal deepens our delivery capabilities and boosts R&D capacity, accelerating innovation for clients.
• Cross‑sell opportunities – Hansen’s 60 % energy revenue base and extensive telco/pay‑TV network position us to introduce Sigma’s core tools to new markets.

Why Sigma attracted Hansen Technologies

Hansen’s decade‑long acquisition track record—nine strategic add‑ons and a 28 % CAGR over the last four years—has focused on “fit‑for‑market” products and strong recurring revenues. Sigma’s IP, business model, and culture align perfectly with Hansen’s core competencies, offering immediate revenue growth through cross‑selling.

Brand and integration plan

Post‑closing, Sigma will operate as “Sigma Systems – A Hansen Technologies Company.” The brand will remain unchanged, with an integration team driving a three‑phase plan to support growth while preserving Sigma’s leadership structure.

Spencer will continue as CEO, reporting to a newly formed Sigma board, ensuring minimal disruption and sustained execution.

Tim Spencer, CEO of Sigma Systems, spoke exclusively to Jeremy Cowan, IoT Now’s editorial director.

Related stories

• Hansen Technologies acquires Enoro
• Sigma wins Smart City partnership with Liverpool City Council
• Sigma advances its product portfolio for the next generation of digital services