Bates IT, which delivers scalable, resilient networks and ICT infrastructure to healthcare providers across the UK, was acquired by ‘buy and build’ specialist Aliter Capital LLP in 2024,  as part of the strategy to create a nationwide critical network and ICT infrastructure managed services leader.

The consolidation of the businesses under one brand identity addresses a major shift in the UK CNI market, with Serbus aiming to double turnover, targeting £75m in revenue within the next 24 months. To achieve this, the company is focused on organic growth, alongside the active pursuit of strategic acquisitions, designed to further expand its capabilities, market share, and geographic reach. The business combines secure infrastructure and communications capabilities, and government-grade security expertise to create a market leader in secure services.

The combined group offers the CNI market immediate scale, boasting a growing workforce, operating across three UK office locations, and on-site at multiple customer locations. By operating as one entity, Serbus now delivers the cross-market vertical infrastructure and communications pedigree of ITM Communications; the healthcare expertise of Bates IT; and the elite, operational security capabilities of the original Serbus business.

 The rebrand represents the strategic integration of these three distinct entities into one "security DNA" focused organisation. As state actors and industrial threats increasingly target UK intellectual property and sovereignty, market demand has shifted from simple connectivity to resilient, secure-by-design infrastructure as recommended by National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).

A critical differentiator for the new Serbus brand is its “security DNA”; with foundations built upon the rigorous standards of the UK Special Forces, UK Government, and National Healthcare. This heritage is embedded in every aspect of the business with highly cleared teams that support operations across the most critical and complex environments.

Simon Fieldhouse, Group CEO of Serbus, said: 'The UK is facing an evolving and escalating threat landscape. To ensure resilience across UK critical services, organisations must protect multiple layers of operational and communications infrastructure throughout their design, installation, management and maintenance of critical services. Serbus services are embedded across sovereign data, secure facilities, ICT infrastructure, and mobile communications to provide resilient, efficient, and secure operations.

 'By bringing our three companies together as Serbus, we are well positioned to deliver ‘best-in-class’ services, enabling our customers and partners to attain an enhanced level of protection and sovereignty. We are trusted to connect and protect the UK’s critical infrastructure.'