Industry Spotlight: Raul Martynek on DataBank’s Digital Playbook for the Edge

DataBank CEO Raul Martynek discusses the company’s strategy following its $1.4 billion acquisition of zColo, which tripled DataBank’s data center footprint, doubled market coverage, and added a European presence. The acquisition strengthened the company’s interconnection assets in Tier 1 markets, complementing DataBank’s enterprise-focused colocation platform. Integration of all 44 data centers is underway, with 80% expected to be completed by mid-year, alongside efforts to unify culture and customer experience.

Martynek highlights DataBank’s approach to the edge, combining a broad “hyperscale edge” footprint with targeted “low-latency edge” locations, exemplified by the recent EdgePresence investment. The strategy supports geographically precise, carrier-neutral, and interconnection-rich deployments that meet evolving application demands.

Looking forward, DataBank plans both organic expansion and selective M&A, prioritizing markets with high customer demand. Current projects include new campuses in Minneapolis and Salt Lake City, as well as expansions in Los Angeles, Ashburn, San Diego, Denver, and Las Vegas. The company also aims to enhance its interconnection and connectivity services, building an ecosystem with automation, self-service, and marketplace capabilities.

Martynek notes that pandemic-driven remote work has accelerated integration efficiencies, and while new workflows may persist, hybrid models will likely balance operational efficiency with employee engagement and business growth.