Expanding telecom systems provider 4Com has made its second acquisition in six months.

The Bournemouth-based provider of business telephone systems to UK SMEs has bought Eastern Telephones Limited, widely known as Eastern Voice and Data.

The purchase, for an undisclosed amount, comes six months after 4Com acquired Midlands-based Midshire Telecom.

Founded 30 years ago, Eastern Voice and Data delivers telecoms services to a variety of private and public sector organisations, predominantly near its head office in Norwich, Norfolk.

The company employs 18 people and has annual sales of around £1.7 million.

Gary Scutt, 4Com’s CEO, pictured left, said: “We talk to a lot of companies as part of our acquisitions process.

“From the outset we were impressed with how the team at Eastern have grown their business.

“As with our acquisition of Midshire Telecom, there is a tremendous amount of opportunity here.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming them into the 4Com Group.”

Russell Marriott, Director, Eastern Voice and Data, said: “We’ve been impressed with the diligence, patience and support that 4Com have shown throughout this process.

“From the outset, they’ve been upfront and honest and supported us as a smaller business to help both parties reach the desired goal.”

4Com, which was founded in 1999, now employs 466 staff and had revenues of £107 million in the year to June.

Dean Cartledge, 4Com’s Chief Operating Officer, pictured right, said: “We understand that deciding to sell a business can be an emotional process.

“The team at Eastern have grown the company from its infancy to its current profitable, well-regarded state.

“Following on from the successful acquisition of Midshire Telecom in May, we wanted to continue to supplement our growth by acquiring other suitable companies.

“We are delighted to conclude this deal with Eastern Voice and Data.

“We’re keen to talk to other telecoms companies who might be considering either selling their entire business, or part of their customer base.”

4Com has established a page on its website for telecom businesses thinking of selling.

It can be accessed here.