Cooper Software strengthens European presence with German acquisition

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software specialist Cooper Software, which is backed by YFM Equity Partners (YFM), is building its reach in central Europe with the acquisition of German-based ERP consulting firm and IFS Applications specialist u:benit.

The acquisition of the German-based business, which will trade as Cooper Software GmbH, is another step in the company’s strategy to expand internationally following a multi-million pound investment by YFM in November 2021. It will enable Cooper Software to meet growing demand for IFS consulting and implementation services in Germany, Austria and Switzerland (D-A-CH).

After Cooper Software expanded its presence in the D-A-CH region by signing a channel services and partnership agreement with IFS for the sale and provision of IFS solutions in the market, the acquisition of u:benit continues its ambitious growth strategy. The deal sees the business move closer to its steadily growing customer base in the region to provide them with targeted support in the implementation and re-design of IFS Applications through high-quality services and products.

The founder of u:benit, Benedikt Stallmann, takes on the role of general manager D-A-CH to continue the expansion of the company.

Jonathan Dunn, managing director of Cooper Software, said: “Due to our rapidly growing customer base in the D-A-CH region, the acquisition of a local ERP specialist will further strengthen our position in the market and meet the high demand for IFS specialists in the region.”

Steve Harrison, partner at YFM and Cooper Software board member, comments: “This first acquisition since our backing of Cooper Software two months ago, marks another exiting chapter in the business’ growth journey. The company’s additional base in central Europe will enable it to offer customers even more comprehensive and competitive ERP services and solutions.”

Cooper Software is an independent provider of products, consulting services and 24/7 support for ERP, helping businesses manage day-to-day functions and bringing the flow of data between these processes into a unified platform. The business has provided more than 1,500 enterprise solutions for over 300 clients worldwide.

YFM has a national portfolio of software and tech businesses, including data transformation software company Matillion in Manchester; Springboard in Milton Keynes which provides footfall data to the retail industry; and enterprise database management business DSP Explorer.