K3 expands with Information Engineering

ERP developer K3 Business Technology Group last month acquired privately-held Information Engineering, which implements the Syspro ERP system, for £6 million. McGuffie Brunton, the other main Syspro reseller in the UK, has assumed ownership of the remaining 50% of Syspro UK from Information Engineering. Meanwhile K3 is to establish Syspro Europe, building on work by Information Engineering and dealing direct with the Syspro authors in South Africa. For K3, it means greater capability in mid-market manufacturing, and the company has already moved some manufacturing deals onto the Syspro platform. Information Engineering will continue to run from Manchester as K3 Information Engineering, and will support further development of the Syspro APS (advanced planning and scheduling) engine. Andy Makeham, K3’s CEO, says: “Syspro provides a market-leading ERP solution for mid-range manufacturers. It complements and strengthens our existing manufacturing software portfolio.” News of the deal and better than expected first half results pushed K3’s share price up 20%. For McGuffie, managing director Paul Murray says: “By acquiring full control of Syspro Ltd., McGuffie Brunton is strengthening its absolute commitment to the Syspro brand and its customer base.”