In a strategic move, Accenture has agreed to acquire a 65% stake in US-based AI data centre engineering and consultancy DLB Associates. This acquisition, involving DLB and its affiliated companies, aims to bolster Accenture’s end-to-end data centre capabilities.
Founded in 1980, DLB is recognised for its data centre site selection, due diligence, and design engineering. The firm specialises in commissioning, construction quality management, and energy optimisation services. It has become a partner for some major technology giants and emerging cloud and colocation providers. DLB’s innovative approach aims to support clients in rapidly achieving market readiness with successful outcomes.
Once the acquisition finalises, DLB’s 620 employees, led by David Quirk and Neil Chauhan, will join Accenture's Industry X practice. This will aim to enhance Accenture’s infrastructure and capital projects capabilities. The collaboration hopes to provide clients with comprehensive solutions from conceptual design through to operational performance.
Manish Sharma, chief strategy and services officer at Accenture, emphasised that the merger will help clients access AI-ready infrastructure more quickly and efficiently. He noted that the partnership aims to improve site planning and selection while also addressing challenges such as staffing shortages and cybersecurity risks.
DLB's engagements include pioneering industry standards, evidenced by its co-foundation of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) Technical Committee TC9.9. This committee focuses on the critical aspects of data centres, amplifying their importance.
The data centre industry, fuelled by AI-demand, is on a rapid growth trajectory. David Quirk, CEO, DLB remarked, "We selected Accenture to unleash our ability to match that scale and help support clients through value creation and joint ideation for next generation AI data center—at pace." Confidence in DLB’s capabilities to support this scaling endeavour is mirrored by Neil Chauhan, DLB’s Chief Innovation Officer.
Accenture's deliberate strides in expanding AI infrastructure capabilities include recent acquisitions of Anser Advisory in the US and Comtech in Canada. These investments aim to enhance Accenture’s global standing in infrastructure and capital projects, enabling a diverse service offering.
Though the terms were not disclosed, completion of the acquisition hinges on customary conditions, including necessary regulatory approvals.
