Software group m-hance launched after deals spree

A BUSINESS software entrepreneur has launched a new venture after a flurry of acquisitions.

Mark Thompson, who formerly ran COA Solutions, before its £100m sale to Stock Market-listed Advanced Computer Software, has bought seven businesses which he has brough under a new brand name, m-hance.

Based in Bredbury, Stockport, m-hance already has offices in London, Loughborough, Glasgow and Subline and 150 staff.

The head office in Bredbury was the home of Trinity Computer Services, which was acquired for £3.5m in the summer, and has 40 staff.

The other businesses comprising m-hance are: Calyx Software, Gyrosoft, and divisions of MentecPlus, Touchstone Group, Sys-Care, and Avant-Garde.

M-hance which is debt-free and is backed by private investors as well as Mr Thompson, is aiming to be a major player in the medium-sized companies sector. The business has almost 1,000 direct customers across the UK and Ireland and a further 1,000 through channel partners.

Mark Thompson, said: “The creation of m-hance allows us to go to our customers with a single, clear identity and message. The company benefits from the stability, long trading history and deep client relationships of each of the component entities.

“We’ve combined the strengths of seven respected specialists into one financially strong leader with an experienced management team backed-up by a solid balance sheet containing no external debt.”
 
Among the business sectors where m-hance has a strong presence are distribution, manufacturing, not-for-profit, education, financial services and hospitality and leisure.

The acquisitions will allow customers to access a wider range of software products, and also secure hosting and support and service.

Mark Thomspon adds: “Economic and legislative changes impacting our target market means they increasingly need a partner who not only understands technology but also their business.”

Marketing director Claire Carter added: “We are looking for more suitable acquisitions and also looking to raise the profile of the m-hance brand, which we launched on November 1.”