Birch Communications, a leading IP-based telecommunications and managed services provider for small- and medium-sized businesses, announced today that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the U.S. CLEC assets of Cordia Communications Corp., My Tel Co, Inc. and Northstar Telecom Inc., a competitive local exchange carriers based inOrlando, Fla.Included in the acquisition are approximately 55,000 business, residential and broadband access lines across 24 states.

"Acquiring the Cordia assets further advances Birch's corporate strategy to strengthen and expand our business via 'tuck-in' synergistic acquisitions," saidVincent M. Oddo, Birch president and CEO. "This is our 12th strategic acquisition during the past five years and each one has significantly increased customer density in our 38 state service footprint. As a result of this asset acquisition, Birch will be adding up to 50 jobs in ourMacon, GeorgiaandEmporia, KansasOperations Centers. The majority of these jobs were previously located outsidethe United States."

Throughout its 15-year history, Birch has built an unparalleled reputation for delivering great service to business and residential customers with a very strong commitment to customer satisfaction. "We are looking forward to welcoming Cordia customers into our Birch family knowing that they will immediately benefit from our dedication to providing award-winning, superior customer care," saidChristopher Aversano, Birch COO.