Nokia Siemens Networks to Acquire IRIS Telecom

­Nokia Siemens Networks is buying Turkey based IRIS Telecom, for an undisclosed sum to boost its network planning and optimization business across the region. According to the company, subject to regulatory approval, the deal should be completed during the first quarter 2011.

According to Nokia Siemens, IRIS, which has around 630 employees, will continue to operate independently under its own name, with its head office in Istanbul.

According to Mete Gokdemir, CEO, IRIS Telecom, 3G and mobile broadband are driving the need to manage end-user experience while improving network efficiency. While a fair portion of the region’s operators are still managing their networks in-house, the company is seeing a growing trend toward outsourcing, given the higher complexities and competence requirements of managing IP networks. In this evolving scenario, Nokia Siemens Networks’ proven business model and the acquired local capabilities of IRIS Telecom will create a winning proposition for operators.

According to Geert Buijk, regional head of Services, Nokia Siemens Networks, the company will use IRIS Telecom’s localized operations and strong position in NPO to improve the service delivery model in Turkey, Eastern Europe and Central Asia. The company aims to deliver unmatched competitive advantages for customers across a region where network data traffic is increasing rapidly as 3G and mobile broadband are starting to take off.

The current CEO, Mete Gokdemir will continue in his role, and Johan Bruce, currently chairman of IRIS Telecom’s Board, will be nominated Executive Director of the company. After closing of the deal, Nokia Siemens Networks will honor all existing commitments made by IRIS Telecom, including those to other equipment vendors. Future multi-vendor services opportunities will be evaluated on a case by case basis in line with Nokia Siemens Networks’ strategy.