Police software firm acquired by Canadian group

Crewe-based Force Information Systems Limited (FIS) has been bought by Acceo Solutions, a wholly owned subsidiary of Canadian-based software company N Harris Computer Corporation, for an undisclosed sum.

Harris is a global market leader in the provision of critical software solutions in the public safety, healthcare and utility sectors.

FIS provides custom-built software solutions for the police service. One of the firm’s main software products, Centurion, is used by more than 96% of police forces in the UK.

The software is used for case recording, management and police reporting and maintaining standards data.

The deal was announced by Martin O’Reilly, director of Force Information Systems, who said: “We’re incredibly proud of the 31-years that FIS has successfully traded.

“Under Harris, FIS will continue to accelerate its growth ambitions and develop its range of advanced software solutions further.”

Cheshire law firm SAS Daniels acted on behalf of the sellers on the sale. Harris was represented by Fox Williams in London.

Paul Tyrer, partner in the corporate team at SAS Daniels, said: “Despite the uncertain economic backdrop, we remain very busy acting on a number of successful deals.

“The technology sector, in particular, is seeing a lot of interest from overseas buyers who are viewing the North West as an attractive area to invest.”