Franklin Telecom to Buy Internet Services Firm

Franklin Telecom in Westlake Village has signed a letter of intent to acquire Internet Passport, subject to board approval by both companies.

Internet Passport offers a variety of high-end Internet business products and services, including satellite access products.

Franklin officials said Internet Passport’s products and services will enhance the capabilities of FNet, Franklin’s Internet division. Internet Passport will maintain and expand its current headquarters in Atlanta.

“We see this acquisition as a significant move toward expanding our infrastructure, which from the outset has been directed toward business clients who require extremely sophisticated high-speed Internet and intranet configurations,” said Frank Peters, president and CEO of Franklin Telecom. “We currently offer hardware solutions through Franklin Telecom. Now, with the additional capabilities of our combined companies, we will be able to offer a total high-speed solution via satellite.”

Sparrow Marcioni, president and CEO of Internet Passport, will continue as chief executive and accept a position as vice president of Franklin.