OCRE 2024: PCG Secures Contracts to Support European R&E Institutions in the Cloud
Public Cloud Group (PCG) has been selected as part of the European OCRE 2024 (Open Clouds for Research Environments) framework agreement, initiated by GÉANT, the pan-European association of national research and education networks (NREN). The initiative aims to provide simplified access to commercial cloud services for research institutions and educational organizations in 39 countries. PCG has successfully positioned itself as a provider in 14 countries, earning top rankings with Google Cloud and Amazon Web Services (AWS).
Strong Rankings with Google and AWS in Europe
The framework agreement, which will run for five years starting February 1, 2025, offers eligible institutions standardized access to cloud services with flexible call-off options. Recognized as a milestone for deploying modern IT infrastructures in research and education, the agreement covers not only traditional IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) but also PaaS (Platform as a Service) and SaaS (Software as a Service).
The framework agreement, which will run for five years starting February 1, 2025, offers eligible institutions standardized access to cloud services with flexible call-off options. Recognized as a milestone for deploying modern IT infrastructures in research and education, the agreement covers not only traditional IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) but also PaaS (Platform as a Service) and SaaS (Software as a Service).
Strong Rankings with Google and AWS in Europe
PCG has strategically secured strong positions in several European countries. Notably, the first-place rankings with Google Cloud in Germany, Austria and Switzerland hold immense potential for collaboration with leading research institutions and universities. Further significant placements in countries such as Greece and Sweden highlight PCG’s robust position with AWS, where it also collaborates closely as a Premier Partner.
“The OCRE framework agreement demonstrates the vital role cloud technologies play in advancing research and education across Europe. With our partnerships with Google and AWS and our deep understanding of the sector’s needs, we are ideally positioned to drive digital transformation for universities and research institutions,” said Thorsten Raquet, CEO of Public Cloud Group. “Our customers benefit not only from our cloud-native services but also from our pan-European expertise and close collaboration with the hyperscalers.”
Focus on Education and Sustainable Growth
PCG’s distinctive feature lies in its education-focused approach within its hyperscaler units. For example, PCG’s Google unit offers holistic solutions that modernize the technical infrastructure of schools and universities, combining digital services with modern hardware to make innovative learning methods more accessible for students.
The same applies to the Microsoft team at PCG, and numerous projects are also underway with educational institutions under the hyperscaler flag of AWS to modernize their IT landscape sustainably through cloud services.
Supporting Educational Institutions Across Europe
By participating in the OCRE framework agreement, PCG strengthens its commitment to research and education in Europe. With the ability to provide cloud services in 14 countries, PCG makes it easier for universities and research institutions to access innovative technologies for their digital transformation. PCG relies on close partnerships with leading hyperscalers such as Google and AWS to deliver tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of this sector.
“Our mission is to enable educational institutions across Europe to access powerful cloud technologies—without complex procurement processes or technological barriers,” says Thorsten Raquet, CEO of Public Cloud Group. “With our expertise and strong partnerships, we support universities and research organizations on their journey into the digital future.”
About Public Cloud Group (PCG)
Public Cloud Group (PCG) guides companies along their entire cloud journey through the use of public cloud solutions. As an experienced partner of all relevant hyperscalers (Amazon Web Services, Google and Microsoft), PCG holds the highest certifications of the respective providers and advises its customers independently.
In addition to Cloud Infrastructure and Modern Workplace, the relevant service areas of the Cloud Journey also include technological focus topics such as Data & AI, Security, Cloud-native Development, SAP Cloud Services and comprehensive operations, known as Managed Cloud Operations.
Today, PCG brings together the expertise of more than 400 cloud experts at numerous locations in Europe.
PCG’s more than 1,150 customers include Allianz, BurgerKing, Flaconi, Generali, HelloFresh, KlassikRadio, Linde Group, Lorenz, McDonalds, myposter, N26, Veolia, Viessmann and many other companies, primarily from the upper midmarket as well as public and private educational institutions.
