Strategic merger expands service capabilities and reinforces commitment to customer-first solutions across growing footprint
Parallel Technologies, Inc. and Communications Resources, Inc. (CRI) announced a strategic merger that creates a unified communications powerhouse positioned as Mitel’s largest partner in the United States, while also holding Platinum partner status with Intermedia and Zoom, and serving as a strategic partner to Dialpad, RingCentral, and Sangoma.
Parallel is powered by the Bridgepointe Technologies platform, having received an investment in 2023 to expand the business through resources and M&A. Together, CRI, Parallel, and Bridgepointe represent one of the largest and most capable Unified Communications (UC) and Customer Experience (CX) implementation companies in the U.S.
Effective immediately, Tennessee-based CRI will operate as a division of Parallel Technologies, continuing to use its brand in established markets. This partnership reflects Parallel’s commitment to being an industry leader offering premise-based, hybrid and cloud unified communications and contact center solutions in an expanded geographic footprint.
Founded in 1980 by Phil Burkett, CRI has established itself as a premier partner for Zoom, RingCentral, and Mitel. With over 100,000 installed seats and a presence spanning 30 states and three countries, CRI brings proven expertise in healthcare, finance, manufacturing, hospitality, and SLED/Higher Education sectors. The company’s 20-plus employees based in Chattanooga, Knoxville, and Virginia are known for their consultative approach and deep product expertise.
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Parallel Technologies is an employee-owned company that has been in business since 1983 and is powered by Bridgepointe Technologies, the nation’s leading technology advisory firm. Alan Burdine, who joined CRI in 1990 and became President in 2010, will continue leading the CRI division while working closely with Parallel’s leadership team on strategic initiatives. Don Poling remains CEO of Parallel Technologies, with Peter Johnson serving as President following the 2024 merger with Michigan-based BSB Communications.
“CRI has always believed great customer experience starts with treating every relationship as if it were a lifetime commitment,” said Burdine. “That mindset has guided us from the beginning, and it’s clear Parallel Technologies shares that same approach. We are certainly excited about expanding our solutions to include the best-in-class SD-WAN, networking, cybersecurity and other technology providers available to us through the Bridgepointe relationship. This next chapter allows us to continue growing alongside our customers while delivering greater value every step of the way.”
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Don Poling added, “CRI’s 45 years of communications expertise and their standing as a top-tier Zoom and RingCentral partner perfectly complement our growing portfolio. We welcome their experience with enterprise customers and together we’re positioned to deliver unmatched service and solutions across a broader geographic footprint.”