Cybersecurity proves to be a focus for deals in the UK&I in 2025
Activity is expected to remain strong with a focus on AI security alongside specialized software security.
By AnsaradaTue May 27 2025Mergers and acquisitions, Industry news and trends, Innovation
The imperative to safeguard digital trust is driving deal flow in cybersecurity globally. Our Global Tech Outlook Report for 2024/25 observes an expected increase in Tech M&A in the UK and Ireland, as interest rates stabilize and companies look to prepare for a future of AI-driven technology. The UK government also recognises cybersecurity as a cornerstone of sustainable economic growth and observes that there were 59 deals raising £206 million in 2024. Activity is expected to remain strong with a focus on AI security alongside specialized software security.
The Darktrace merger with Thoma Bravo was completed on 1 October 2024 for approximately $5.3 billion, following approval of the Scheme of Arrangement by the UK Court in September 2024. The deal combines Darktrace’s AI-driven cybersecurity capabilities with Thoma Bravo’s strategic expertise to form a powerful foundation for future growth and innovation.
As predicted in our report, cybersecurity is a focus of M&A in the UK&I thus far in 2025. In January 2025 DarkTrace acquired Cado Security, which specializes in investigation and response automations across multi-cloud and hybrid environments.
In March 2025, US security company Forcepoint signed an agreement to acquire Ireland-based Getvisibility, a data security posture management, detection and response provider.
Likewise, Nortal’s purchase of 3DOT Solutions, a UK cybersecurity consultancy and certified supplier to the UK Armed Forces and Intelligence Services, significantly enhances Nortal’s cybersecurity capabilities and addresses the growing demand for cybersecurity services across Europe and the US.
UK-based Sophos finalized the acquisition of US-based Secureworks in February 2025, for $859 million, with backing from investment firm Thoma Bravo. This acquisition makes Sophos the leading pure-play cybersecurity provider of Managed Detection and Response (MDR) services. Integration of Secureworks is expected to provide stronger end-to-end security solutions that include identity threat detection and response (ITDR), next-gen SIEM and managed risk in a single open platform, enabling companies using the platform to safeguard complex current and future technology investments.
This rush of M&A activity in early 2025 shows a strategic shift to consolidate expertise in the cybersecurity sector, enhance capabilities and expand geographic reach. These acquisitions have the potential to drive innovation, improve service offerings and strengthen market positions. Companies now integrating newly acquired assets are positioned to take a more comprehensive approach to cybersecurity, which may include setting new standards for the future.
