Marlin brings Sycamore Network Solutions under Coriant

In an expected move, Marlin Equity Partners has folded Sycamore Networks Solutions, Inc., which it acquired this past January (see “Sycamore Networks Solutions begins new chapter”) into Coriant, the former optical networks business of Nokia Siemens Networks that Marlin purchased this past May (see “Coriant unleashed as Marlin Equity Partners closes acquisition”). Sycamore now becomes Coriant America Inc. and Coriant adds optical mesh switching, multi-service switching, and additional intelligent control plane expertise to its existing line of optical transport and software-defined network (SDN) enabled software platforms, including the newly released Intelligent Optical Control platform.

“We are excited to harness a deeper pool of optical networking expertise as we leverage the combined strengths of these exceptional teams to advance Coriant’s global market position,” said Pat DiPietro, an operating partner at Marlin and a member of Coriant’s board. “With an expanded solutions portfolio and greater operational scale, we will be well-positioned for continued growth and innovation.”

Marlin sees pairing the assets of its two recent acquisitions as creating an end-to-end optical networking portfolio. The move also strengthens Coriant’s software expertise, an important element given Coriant’s stated goal to be a leader in SDN for carrier environments. The combined companies also enhance global sales and support.

The former Sycamore will retain its headquarters in Chelmsford, MA, but adopt the Coriant brand.

"The products of both companies are distinguished by technology innovation and best-in-class performance,” commented Bob Leggett, an operating partner at Marlin and another Coriant board member. “As we bring these offerings together under the Coriant solutions portfolio, we will draw upon a broader set of capabilities, as well as Marlin’s financial and operational resources, to help service providers maximize the value of their optical networks in the hypergrowth era.”

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