Global firm snaps up Yorkshire software provider
YORKSHIRE provider of home delivery software Axida has been acquired by a major global business, in a deal expected to create a leading player in home delivery and advanced routing and scheduling software.
Established in 1995, Hull-based Axida specialises in two-man home delivery software solutions which improve customer service and profitability to a blue chip customer base consisting primarily of major retailers and third party logistical providers. Customers include Ikea, Laura Ashley, Wickes and Sainsbury’s.
The business, on Preston Road, has been snapped up by Paragon Software Systems, which supplies advanced routing and scheduling software to vehicle fleet operators.
Paragon, which has its UK head office based in Dorking, Surrey, delivers software solutions that cut transport costs, improve efficiency and raise customer service levels. It has more than 3,300 systems at over 1,000 client sites in more than 50 countries, and its software is used for daily route scheduling and optimisation, strategic transport planning, and real time fleet management.
With combined sales of over £11m and brands such as HDi, HDS, Paragon and fleXipod, the enlarged business will have a market leading suite of products to drive future growth to customers in both UK and overseas markets.
Axida was jointly owned by Wayne Holgate and Len Robinson. The deal coincides with Robinson’s retirement. Holgate will retain a large part of his existing shareholding and is fully committed to working with Paragon and continuing to head up the Axida business.
Axida’s shareholders were advised by Jim Whittaker and Alan Metcalfe at Baker Tilly and Nasim Sharf at Rollits.
Mr Holgate said: “The deal cements a long-term working relationship between the two companies and brings together our complementary software solutions, giving both companies greater potential to build on the strong growth already achieved.”
William Salter, director of Paragon added: “Overall this represents a very exciting opportunity for both Axida and Paragon, and will enable us to really build our presence in the fast growing home delivery sector. The deal also affords us the opportunity to sell Axida’s new proof-of-delivery software product, called fleXipod, to our large client base.”
Axida will be known as Axida – a Paragon group company.
Alan Metcalfe from Baker Tilly said: “The acquisition of Axida by Paragon provides Axida with a great platform for the next stage in its development, both in UK and overseas markets, and we are delighted to have helped facilitate this transaction.”
