EDP supplies sales analytics & CRM and ERP software, such as Vecta and Quantum, to merchants and other distributors. The K8 ERP solution, developed by KCS, is widely used in similar markets, where the company has over 40 years of experience and is a recognised thought leader in trading and management technology. Clearly the acquisition is a good fit for both businesses.
During the past eight years KCS has grown rapidly, both organically and through the acquisition of a number of businesses, to extend its geographical reach, add product capability and extend into adjacent vertical markets. The company now serves over 10,000 customers across Europe, South Africa and the United States.
By integrating the EDP business with KCS, all customers will be offered a more extensive product suite. KCS will also offer the Vecta CRM/BI product to its wider global customer base as a stand-alone product, as well as integrating it as a module within some of the KCS products. KCS will continue to service and support customers using EDP’s Quantum, Merchant, Charisma, Esprit and The Business Programme products. Over time, KCS will offer alternative products (such as its core K8 ERP system) to EDP customers, as potential longer-term solutions.
Commenting on the acquisition, Ian Bendelow, Chief Executive Officer of KCS said, “The acquisition of EDP is a great opportunity to accelerate our strategy. It brings us greater presence in the UK and an increased platform for growth in our traditional markets. EDP is a high quality business with customer offerings that are highly complementary to KCS. We welcome EDP employees to the group and look forward to working with them.”
The EDP and KCS businesses have been good competitors for many years, addressing the needs of customers in the same vertical markets. Accordingly the EDP directors believe that KCS’ activities provide a strong fit with those of EDP and that KCS is an appropriate partner to continue the development of the EDP business. The additional resources that KCS will bring will mean that it is well positioned and resourced to support EDP and the future growth of the EDP business.
Sir Michael Heller, Non-Executive Chairman of EDP
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