Software and technology solutions supplier Intact has acquired UK-based software house, Blue Rock Systems, a Southampton business which has been reselling, implementing and supporting Intact ERP systems for over 16 years.
Intact CEO, Justin Lawless, today (June 20), said that the move will strengthen Intact’s market share across the target verticals in which it operates and will bolster the company’s talent pool to support ambitious growth plans for Ireland, the UK and global markets.
“The acquisition of Blue Rock Systems is part of Intact’s strategy to become the leading provider of ERP and business software solutions in the merchant and distribution sector. This important development adds to our strong customer base and involves a team of highly skilled individuals, with deep software industry expertise, who will enhance customer service and support our growth plans.”
Blue Rock Systems’ full team has been retained as part of the acquisition deal, which will see Intact employee numbers increase from 200 to 243 staff across Ireland and the UK.
Lawless adds: “Blue Rock Systems grew revenue 30% last year, returning double digit profit growth. Its 43 staff and senior management are all vastly experienced in the software industry and, working collaboratively as part of Intact, will add immense value to our product and service offering.”
Blue Rock Systems was formed in March 2005 by managing director, George Troullis, sales director, Glen Jewell, and Lance Norton, commercial director. Troullis will oversee the business incorporation, complementing the Intact senior leadership team.
Blue Rock Systems already implement and support Intact developed systems across a network of UK trade customers. They have also successfully developed complementary products including e-commerce, POD scanning and on-line auctioning, to expand the solution on offer. The company specialises in the same target verticals as Intact, primarily merchants and distribution.
In February this year, Intact invested in a new, expanded state-of-the-art UK headquarters in Hemel Hempstead.
Blue Rock is Intact’s second software business acquisition in England, having acquired Ramtac in 2016.
Intact’s annual turnover, currently in the region of €17 million, has grown over 500% in the last ten years, with more than 60% growth anticipated in the coming year. The acquisition was self-funded, without the need for external investment.