African enterprise solutions provider Bluechip Technologies has launched operations in Europe, aiming to bring its data warehousing and analytics expertise to the region. Founded in 2008 by Olumide Soyombo and Kazeem Tewogbade, the Nigeria-based company serves banks, telecommunications firms, and insurance companies with tailored enterprise applications and data solutions. Its European operations will be based in Ireland.
The move positions Bluechip Technologies to tap into the growing demand for data management and analytics in Europe, projected to reach $105 billion by 2027. The company plans to offer European firms access to its Nigerian team of highly skilled data engineers and its proprietary solutions at competitive rates.
Filling the Data Talent Gap
Bluechip Technologies has long supported its African clients, including FirstBank, MTN, and Access Bank, with solutions like data warehousing, analytics, and voucher management systems. These offerings help businesses analyze trends such as customer retention and operational efficiency.
To bolster its capabilities, the company launched Primo Academy, a six-month training program aimed at producing data professionals for its operations and partners. With the global tech talent shortage, the academy positions Bluechip to address the rising demand for data professionals in Europe.“The pandemic accelerated the need for a global workforce, and our model allows us to deliver the same quality services as competitors from India or Eastern Europe but at a lower cost,” said Soyombo.
European Expansion Strategy
Leading Bluechip’s European subsidiary is Richard Lewis, a seasoned executive with experience in global sales and enterprise software. Lewis plans to focus on the banking and telecommunications sectors, leveraging Bluechip’s partnerships with global giants like Oracle and Microsoft.
The company’s competitive edge lies in its cost-effective services. “If firms are paying a premium for developers elsewhere, we can deliver equally qualified talent at 20-30% less,” said Soyombo.
Growth Trajectory
Bluechip Technologies has witnessed substantial growth since its inception, expanding across Africa to markets like Kenya, Zambia, and Ghana. The company, which reported nearly $50 million in revenue last year, now has its sights set on scaling globally, with ambitions to hit $250 million in annual revenue within five years.
While Bluechip operates with a lean, self-funded business model, its pan-African and European expansion reflects its vision of becoming a multinational IT and consulting powerhouse akin to India’s Tata Consulting or Tech Mahindra.
The company also plans to explore additional markets in French-speaking Africa and North America in the near future.
