Westcoast acquires stake in cybersecurity start-up Beyond Encryption

Investment from distributor provides ‘major boost’ to Beyond Encryption’s growth plans, claims CEO

Westcoast has acquired a minority stake in cybersecurity start-up Beyond Encryption which will provide a "major boost" for the vendor's expansion strategy across the UK and internationally.

Beyond Encryption' is an email and communications cybersecurity vendor serving sectors including financial services, accountancy, legal, education, shipping and security services.

Based in Hampshire, the start-up was founded by CEO Paul Holland in 2016.

Holland said that it is "an incredible compliment" to the firm to have a company of the size and strength of Westcoast as an investor in the business.

"The Westcoast investment is a major boost for our growth plans to distribute into new markets and develop new products. Importantly, BE and Westcoast share similar values, recognising the importance of our people in delivering technical excellence and helping our customers lead better and safer digital lives."

The investment will help Beyond Encryption's strategy to scale across multiple sectors in the UK and enter new geographies.

Tim Armstrong from PwC, which helped broker the deal, said: "We are pleased to have advised the shareholders of Beyond Encryption on this key milestone in the journey of an exciting business.

"The team have developed a fantastic suite of products, building on their deep expertise and experience. The partnership with Westcoast will facilitate an opportunity to further expand organically. We wish Beyond Encryption and Westcoast every success for the future."