3C and Datalec merge to form $400 million AI Data Centre infrastructure business

3C has merged with London-based Datalec Precision Installations to establish 3C Datalec, a global business specialising in the design, construction, and operation of infrastructure for AI and high-density data centres.

Announced on 14 October 2026, the merger combines 3C’s liquid cooling expertise with Datalec’s mechanical and electrical engineering, manufacturing, connectivity, and facilities management capabilities.

The combined business has approximately 1,000 employees and forecasts revenue exceeding US$400 million in 2026. It operates across Europe, the Middle East, Asia-Pacific, and North America, with active projects in 16 countries.

Supporting Growing AI Infrastructure Demand

The merger comes as AI workloads place increasing demands on data centre infrastructure, particularly cooling systems, power distribution, and high-density computing environments.

3C Datalec will organise its services into three divisions: Create, covering design and engineering; Construct, encompassing liquid cooling, manufacturing, and installation; and Care, providing commissioning, maintenance, and facilities management.

“Rack densities have outgrown air, and liquid cooling is no longer optional,” said Steve Walton, CEO of 3C Datalec.

“The hard part now is making cooling, power, construction and operations work as one system, while running at scale. We’re combining our liquid cooling expertise with Datalec’s engineering, manufacturing and FM capabilities, so customers have one partner from design to operation.”

International Expansion and Recruitment

Backed by new investment from Longbow Capital, S2G Investments, Apogem Capital, and QIC, the company plans to recruit 200 additional engineers over the next 12 months.

New facilities are also planned for Warsaw, Poland; Calgary, Canada; and Austin, Texas, as the business expands its international engineering and technical capabilities.

According to the companies, 3C Datalec already works with four of the world’s five largest hyperscale operators and more than 25 colocation providers.

Datalec’s headquarters will remain in London, with its founding leadership team continuing in executive roles within the combined organisation.

Financial terms of the merger have not been disclosed.