eFolder Buys Anchor: Cloud BDR Meets File Sync & Sharing
eFolder has acquired Anchor — creating a pure channel alternative to Box, Dropbox and other popular cloud-based file sync and sharing services, MSPmentor has learned. In some ways, this is yet another MSP software M&A deal. In other ways, the eFolder-Anchor business combination could have far bigger implications for channel partners seeking cloud storage, business continuity and file sharing services from a single organization.
eFolder previously partnered with Mezeo for file syncing services since about June 2013. But that relationship will take a back seat now that eFolder is buying Anchor. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Among the variables MSPs should note:
- eFolder has about 57 employees and 1250 partners. The company focuses on branded cloud backup, BDR, replication, and email security. While CEO Kevin Hoffman focuses on the technology, VP of Marketing Ted Hulsy drives marketing and channel engagements.
- Anchor has about 23 employees and 350 partners. The start-up company wrote a home-grown cloud-based file sharing and syncing platform specifically for MSPs. Anchor’s Bryan Forrester will run the new eFolder division as VP of business development and general manager.
Rivals Everywhere
Admittedly, a lengthy list of file sharing and syncing services is moving into the channel. In the mid-market sector, players such as Egnyte have partnered up with Google, NetApp and NetGear. Also, familiar brands like Box and Dropbox are working hard to recruit resellers.
But Hulsy says the eFolder-Anchor business combination brings partners a unique blend of cloud storage, BDR and file sync services that MSPs can brand and promote on their own. Also, MSPs can host the Anchor software on their own if they so choose.
Some Partners Celebrate
True believers in the deal include SNC Squared — an MSP that works with both eFolder and Anchor, according to CEO John Motazedi. “At the end of the day eFolder is rounding our their product offering of cloud based storage,” said Motazedi. “This is a good solution for eFolder and a great solution for their partners. We have a one-stop solution that simplifies my technical support and software offerings.”
SNC Squared works with eFolder because “we were looking for a partner with local U.S.-based facilities with great product that covered all aspects of backups,” said Motazedi. “These included image- and file-based [backup] with offsite cloud recovery options.”
Moreover, SNC works with Anchor because “we were trying to find a way to fill the requirements of our clients for a file and folder storage and sharing solutions,” said Motazedi. “We needed the product to be brandable, affordable and robust.”
Bigger Picture
The combined eFolder-Anchor company certainly is not a technology giant. At 80 employees, the organization is small compared to larger companies competing in the cloud backup, file sync and MSP software markets.Â
But eFolder’s Hulsy and the Anchror team know their way around the MSP market. Hulsy is particularly active within MSP communities like HTG Peer Groups. Somewhat similarly, the Anchor team has focused at a range of MSP events over the past year.Â
Think of it this way: eFolder and Anchor have been growing up in the MSP market, while giants like Box and Dropbox are working hard to parachute into the MSP community. That should make for some interesting competition in the weeks and months ahead.
Congratulations to Bryan
Congratulations to Bryan Forrester. He’s a good guy and I wish him much success with this acquisition.
The channel has seen quite a
The channel has seen quite a few acquisitions this year, and I think many would agree they have not always been in the best interest of MSP partners. Anchor joining the eFolder family is truly a win for the channel – both for our current partners, and eFolder partners looking to offer a secure, brandable, and affordable file sync & sharing platform.
I’m excited about the new resources and positive changes this brings to Anchor partners, and look forward to welcoming eFolder partners to the Anchor platform.
Katie Braband
Director of Channel Development, Anchor
What was the purchase price
What was the purchase price or if it’s not available — what is your best guess Joe?
Hi CA MSP: In this case I
Hi CA MSP: In this case I can’t render a best guess because there’s so little public history on Anchor.
-jp
From the viewpoint of a
From the viewpoint of a small, start-up MSP, it would be nice if their pricing quantities and minimums matched.
Current situation: eFolder requires a minimum of 100.00 in usage, whereas, Anchor requires 250.00 minimum with SaaS model with 25 users. The Anchor in-house, private cloud model requires a minimum of 495.00 recurring for 100 user licenses.
H Pittman: As we cover this
H Pittman: As we cover this deal in the days and weeks ahead, I’ll be sure to ask eFolder if there are plans to coordinate the pricing levels across eFolder and Anchor.
-jp
What are the chances that
What are the chances that eFolder gets acquired by Dell? They seem to have a cozy relationship due to the fact that Dell AppAssure uses eFolder. I personally don’t trust Dell coming too close to my clients.
Hey Jim: Thanks for your
Hey Jim: Thanks for your readership and comment. A few random thoughts:
1. Dell’s Software Strategy: Michael Dell is trying to build a $5 billion software business. My personal belief is he wants to buy software companies that generate $100M or more in annual revenues focused on enterprise data centers.
2. The Bad: Dell recently killed PacketTrap, the PSA and RMM platform for MSPs. I suspect revenues were $15 million or less. That type of revenue stream no longer interests Michael Dell unless there’s a rapid, clear path to $100M and beyond.
3. The Good: Dell has the most consistent channel leadership of all the major IT vendors. I know that sounds crazy but I truly believe it.
Bottom line: eFolder has a growing business with loyal MSPs. eFolder has also had a good relationship with Dell. Now, eFolder’s Anchor acquisition is a natural extension for MSPs. Would I be shocked if Dell purchased eFolder? No. Have I heard that type of rumor? No. Do I think Michael Dell is looking more towards enterprise data center software for global 2000 companies? Yes.
Again, just my 2 cents…
-jp