Champion ONE, a Cleveland-headquartered designer, marketer and supplier of optical networking components worldwide, has merged with Orange County, California’s Approved Networks and its affiliate, U.S. Critical, which provide programming, testing and distribution of OEM alternative optics.
The combined entity, which will continue to operate under the Champion ONE, Approved and U.S. Critical brands, will be headed by Pete Kirchof, Champion ONE’s executive chairman. Kurt Dunteman, Approved Networks’ co-founder and CEO, will serve as chief revenue officer of the unified company.
The company will feature expanded product offerings and leverage its growing team to service its domestic and international customer base.
Kirchof noted that, “Similar to Champion ONE, Approved Networks has achieved significant growth since its inception, in large part due to its commitment to listening to customers and delivering consistent operational excellence. The decision to merge the companies was based not only on the compelling business synergies, but by the exceptional cultural fit, shared operational ethos, and relentless dedication to customer service.”
Champion ONE is a designer, marketer and supplier of optical networking components worldwide. Founded in 1992, Champion ONE is headquartered in Cleveland, with additional offices in Atlanta, Dallas, Denver, Omaha and Silicon Valley.
