Datalec Precision Installations (DPI) and PODTECH have announced a global technology partnership focused on delivering pre-staged, deployment-ready AI infrastructure solutions as hyperscaler demand drives data center vacancy rates to historic lows. With capacity tightening to 6.5% in Europe and 5.9% in the U.K., the partnership addresses a critical bottleneck in AI data center commissioning, where deployment timelines and technical complexity have become major constraints for enterprises and cloud platforms scaling GPU-intensive workloads.

The AI Infrastructure Commissioning Challenge

As hyperscalers deploy more than $600 billion in AI data center infrastructure this year, representing 75% of total capital expenditure, the focus has shifted from simply securing capacity to ensuring infrastructure is fully validated and production-ready at deployment. AI workloads demand far more than traditional data center services. NVIDIA-based AI racks require specialized expertise in NVLink fabric configuration, GPU testing, compute node initialization, dead-on-arrival (DOA) testing, site and factory acceptance testing (SAT/FAT), and network validation. These technical requirements, combined with increasingly tight deployment windows, have created demand for integrated commissioning providers capable of delivering turnkey solutions.

Integrated Capabilities Across the AI Lifecycle

The DPI-PODTECH partnership brings together complementary capabilities across the full AI infrastructure stack. DPI contributes expertise in infrastructure connectivity and mechanical systems. PODTECH adds software development, commissioning protocols, and systems integration delivered through more than 60 technical specialists across the U.K., Asia, and the Middle East. Together, the companies offer end-to-end services from pre-deployment validation through network bootstrapping, ensuring AI environments are fully operational before customer handoff.

The partnership builds on successful NVIDIA AI rack deployments for international hyperscaler programs, where both companies demonstrated the ability to manage complex, multi-site rollouts. By formalizing their collaboration, DPI and PODTECH are positioning to scale these capabilities across regions where data center capacity is most constrained and AI infrastructure demand is accelerating fastest.

Strategic Focus on High-Growth Markets

The partnership specifically targets Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, markets experiencing acute capacity constraints and surging AI investment. PODTECH’s existing presence across these regions gives the partnership immediate on-the-ground capacity to support hyperscaler and enterprise deployments. The company’s ISO 27001, ISO 9001, and ISO 20000-1 certifications provide the compliance foundation required for clients in regulated industries and public sector engagements.

Industry Perspective

“As organizations accelerate their AI adoption, the reliability and performance of the underlying infrastructure have never been more critical,” said James Bangs, technology and services director at DPI. “Building on our partnership with PODTECH, we have already delivered multiple successful deployments together, and this formal collaboration enables us to scale our capabilities globally.”

Harry Pod, founder at PODTECH, emphasized the operational benefits of the integrated model: “Following our successful collaborations with Datalec on major NVIDIA AI rack deployments, we are very proud to officially combine our capabilities. By working as one integrated delivery team, we can provide clients with packaged, pre-staged, and deployment-ready AI infrastructure solutions grounded in quality, precision, and engineering excellence.”

Looking Ahead

For enterprises and hyperscalers navigating AI infrastructure decisions in 2026, the partnership signals a shift toward specialized commissioning providers capable of managing the entire deployment lifecycle. With hyperscaler capital expenditure forecast to remain elevated through 2027 and vacancy rates showing no signs of easing, demand for integrated commissioning services is likely to intensify across DPI and PODTECH’s target markets.

Organizations evaluating AI infrastructure commissioning strategies can learn more at datalecltd.com.

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As artificial intelligence reshapes how organizations generate value from data, a quieter shift is happening beneath the surface. The question is no longer just how data is protected, but where it is processed, who governs it, and how infrastructure decisions intersect with national regulation and digital policy.

Datalec Precision Installations (DPI) is seeing this shift play out across global markets as enterprises and public sector organizations reassess how their data center strategies support both AI performance and regulatory alignment. What was once treated primarily as a compliance issue is increasingly viewed as a foundational design consideration.

Sovereignty moves upstream.

Data sovereignty has traditionally been addressed after systems were deployed, often resulting in fragmented architectures or operational workarounds. That approach is becoming less viable as regulations tighten and AI workloads demand closer proximity to sensitive data.

Organizations are now factoring sovereignty into infrastructure planning from the start, ensuring data remains within national borders and is governed by local legal frameworks. For many, this shift reduces regulatory risk while creating clearer operational boundaries for advanced workloads.

AI raises the complexity

AI intensifies data governance challenges by extending them beyond storage into compute and model execution. Training and inference processes frequently involve regulated or sensitive datasets, increasing exposure when data or workloads cross borders.

This has driven growing interest in sovereign AI environments, where data, compute, and models remain within a defined jurisdiction. Beyond compliance, these environments offer greater control over digital capabilities and reduced dependence on external platforms.

Balancing performance and governance 

Supporting sovereign AI requires infrastructure that can deliver high-density compute and low-latency performance without compromising physical security or regulatory alignment. DPI addresses this by delivering AI-ready data center environments designed to support GPU-intensive workloads while meeting regional compliance requirements.

The objective is to enable organizations to deploy advanced AI systems locally without sacrificing scalability or operational efficiency.

Regional execution at global scale

Demand for localized, compliant infrastructure is growing across regions where digital policy and economic strategy intersect. DPI’s expansion across the Middle East, APAC, and other international markets reflects this trend, combining regional delivery with standardized operational practices across 21 global entities.

According to Michael Aldridge, DPI’s Group Information Security Officer, organizations increasingly view localized infrastructure as a way to future-proof their digital strategies rather than constrain them.

Compliance as differentiation

As AI adoption accelerates, infrastructure and governance decisions are becoming inseparable. Organizations that can control where data lives and how AI systems operate are better positioned to manage risk, meet regulatory expectations, and move faster in regulated markets.

DPI’s approach reflects a broader industry shift: compliance is no longer just about meeting requirements, but about enabling innovation in an AI-driven environment.

To read DPI’s full perspective on data sovereignty and AI readiness, visit the company’s website.

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As 2025 comes to a close, Tim Hickinbottom, Head of Strategic Accounts at Datalec Precision Installations (DPI), is reflecting on a milestone year both personally and professionally. With nearly four decades in the digital infrastructure and technology sector, Hickinbottom’s perspective offers insight into how experience, adaptability, and long-term vision continue to shape growth in an evolving industry.

A Career Built on Experience and Adaptability

Hickinbottom’s career began in 1986 at Compucorp and includes formative years in the Royal Navy and with British Aerospace in Saudi Arabia. These early experiences helped shape a leadership approach grounded in resilience, discipline, and adaptability. These are qualities that remain critical as data center and mission-critical services grow more complex and globally connected.

A Defining Year 

In 2025, DPI sustained its year-on-year growth while expanding into new regions. The launch of operations in APAC, continued momentum in the Middle East, and steady growth across Europe marked one of the company’s busiest periods to date. By year-end, DPI expects to operate 23 entities worldwide, with further expansion already underway.

According to Hickinbottom, this progress reflects both strong market demand and a deliberate strategy focused on operational discipline and long-term stability.

Strategy, Engagement, and Sustainability

Behind the visible growth is a leadership team focused on reinvestment and sustainable expansion. While much of this work occurs behind the scenes, evolving strategies and internal alignment are shaping DPI’s direction.

Throughout the year, DPI reinforced its global presence at major industry events including Datacentre World and GITEX conferences across multiple regions. At the same time, the company advanced its sustainability efforts, earning recognition from CDP and EcoVadis and preparing to share its Science Based Targets.

“These initiatives matter deeply to our clients and partners,” Hickinbottom notes, emphasizing accountability and environmental stewardship as core elements of industry leadership.

Looking Ahead to 2026

As DPI looks toward 2026, Hickinbottom remains optimistic about the challenges and opportunities ahead. With hard work embedded in the company’s culture and a clear focus on innovation, DPI is positioned to continue supporting data center operators and digital infrastructure stakeholders worldwide.

“Work should be enjoyable,” Hickinbottom reflects. “It’s been an incredible journey so far, and I’m excited for what’s next.”

To explore Hickinbottom’s full reflections on 2025 and his perspective on the year ahead, read the complete blog on Datalec Precision Installations’ website here.

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In an era where sustainability is no longer just a buzzword but a business imperative, the data center industry is under increasing pressure to demonstrate measurable environmental progress. Datalec Precision Installations (DPI), a provider of world-class global data center design, supply, build, and installation services, has taken a significant step in this direction. The company announced this week that it has been recognized for its transparency on environmental issues with a ‘B’ score from CDP Worldwide, the global non-profit that runs the world’s leading environmental disclosure system.

A Benchmark for Transparency

DPI’s ‘B’ rating in the climate change category places it among a select group of organizations demonstrating “Management” level stewardship. This score indicates that Datalec is not just aware of its environmental impact but is taking coordinated action on climate issues.

The achievement is notable given the rigour of the CDP process. In 2025, nearly 20,000 companies were scored, with CDP’s methodology widely considered the gold standard for corporate environmental reporting. By aligning with the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) framework, CDP scores are a critical metric for the 640 institutional investors – representing over $127 trillion in assets – who use this data to inform their investment and procurement decisions.

Driving an Earth-Positive Economy

For the data center sector, where Scope 3 emissions and supply chain transparency are critical challenges, DPI’s disclosure represents a commitment to the future.

“We are proud to receive a B score from CDP, which is a meaningful recognition of the tireless and consistent work of our entire team towards achieving our ESG goals,” said Tim Hickinbottom, DPI ESG Group Lead. “Transparency and accountability are at the heart of our sustainability strategy, and this result reflects our commitment to driving positive environmental impact. While we celebrate this milestone, we remain focused on continuous improvement and advancing sustainable practices.”

The Importance of Disclosure

Sherry Madera, CEO of CDP, emphasized that these scores are about more than just accolades. They are about future-proofing operations. “A CDP score is a sign of commitment to high-quality data that enables companies to take earth-positive economic decisions,” Madera noted. “Tackling environmental risks head-on will create a more resilient economy and increase companies’ ability to innovate and invest.”

To learn more about Datalec’s services and sustainability initiatives, visit www.datalecltd.com.

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As the Middle East accelerates toward becoming a global digital hub, Datalec Precision Installations (DPI) is emerging as one of the most influential players shaping the region’s next generation of data center capacity. From rapid growth in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to its strategic expansion into Saudi Arabia, DPI is building not only facilities, but long-term regional capability, technical leadership, and a sustainable supply chain that aligns with the Gulf’s digital ambitions.

A Growing Footprint in the UAE

DPI’s presence in the UAE has expanded quickly. What began with a small local team has evolved into a 51,000 square foot regional headquarters in Dubai that combines manufacturing, training, a marketing suite, and operational support. The company is approaching 100,000 man hours without a major incident and continues to deliver high value projects across Abu Dhabi and the broader region.

This growth is reinforced by DPI’s strong engagement with the regional ecosystem, including industry events, solution showcases, and ongoing collaboration with operators and integrators.

Saudi Arabia Becomes the Next Major Hub

DPI’s new office in Dammam is nearing completion and will formalize its expansion into Saudi Arabia. The move aligns with the Kingdom’s fast growing data center market, which is projected to surpass US$6 billion by 2027. DPI’s in region leadership brings extensive experience in grey space integration, lifecycle services, facilities management, and technical fit outs, enabling the company to support large scale digital development plans across the country.

Moving Beyond Whitespace to a Full Service Partner

Although known for whitespace delivery, DPI’s capabilities span the entire data center lifecycle. The company manages grey space technical fit outs, maintenance and lifecycle services, secure migrations, operational support, and bespoke technical installations. These end to end capabilities allow operators to scale efficiently as AI, cloud, and government digital programs accelerate.

DPI’s Dubai facility also reflects an ESG focused approach to manufacturing. The site is powered by a rooftop solar array, sources most materials from local suppliers, and uses waste reducing production methods that support both environmental goals and regional supply chain resilience.

With demand rising for high density, AI ready environments, DPI continues to invest in modular, high load, and custom infrastructure solutions. Its Hyperion Ceiling System and in house cabinet manufacturing capabilities enable faster deployment and greater adaptability across diverse regional projects.

Looking Ahead

Sean Christie, DPI’s Regional Director for the Middle East, notes that the company’s growth reflects both market momentum and long term commitment.

“As the Middle East continues to position itself as a global digital hub, DPI is committed to being part of that journey for the long term. We are laying the foundation for a smarter, more resilient, and more sustainable digital future.”

With expanding operations in the UAE and Saudi Arabia and a model centered on sustainability, local capability, and technical excellence, DPI is well positioned to support the region’s next phase of digital infrastructure development.

To read more, click here.

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Datalec Precision Installations (DPI) is celebrating more than a decade of growth, innovation, and excellence in building advanced data center infrastructure. Founded in 2012, DPI began with a vision to raise standards in the industry through precision, performance, and constant improvement. Today, the company employs more than 300 people and operates in over 25 countries across Europe, the Middle East, and the Asia-Pacific region.

Since its first turnkey data hall fit-out in 2014, DPI has continued to grow alongside the evolving data center market. The company has become known for delivering efficient, sustainable, and flexible digital infrastructure that supports modern technology and AI applications.

DPI’s success is built on its focus on quality, hands-on delivery, and innovation. Its UK manufacturing facilities handle everything from custom enclosures to powder coating and electronic security, allowing DPI to maintain control and consistency. The company’s powder coating site has achieved a 90% reduction in material waste, reflecting its commitment to sustainability.

Strategic growth has been central to DPI’s progress. The company’s 2022 acquisition of Technivo and the launch of a 52,000 square foot manufacturing facility in the United Arab Emirates marked the start of its expansion in the Middle East. A year later, DPI entered the Asia-Pacific region, where it completed the largest GPU installation of its kind outside the United States in 2025.

Today, DPI continues to broaden its services to include consultancy, facilities management, and project advisory. With new solutions like the Hyperion Ceiling System and modular data hall designs, the company remains focused on helping clients meet growing global demand for reliable and high-performance infrastructure.

DPI’s story is one of steady growth and clear purpose. From one person’s vision to a trusted global leader, the company continues to shape the future of data centers with precision, quality, and commitment.

To read more, please click here.

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