Sanderson increases US local presence

Local government supplier Sanderson has acquired US software developer Creative Microsystems (CMI) for £1.5m, in its second acquisition in a month.

Local government supplier Sanderson has acquired US software developer Creative Microsystems (CMI) for £1.5m, in its second acquisition in a month.

CMI has been providing Ohio local and state government with information systems for government finance, public safety, municipal courts and document imaging for more than 19 years.

The acquisition, part of an expansion strategy by the reseller, is expected to boost Sanderson's product portfolio and increase its international presence.

Last month, Sanderson paid £922,325 for the local government systems division of Australian software company Genasys.

Christopher Winn, chief executive of Sanderson, said the acquisition will allow the Var to expand its presence in the US.

"CMI's business activities complement Sanderson's existing activities in the public sector. This acquisition, along with the takeover of Genasys, further demonstrates our focus and commitment in the market," he said.

CMI recorded profit of £330,000 on turnover of £2.7m for the year ended 31 March. CMI has net assets of £550,000 including £730,000 in cash.

Sanderson posted pre-tax profit of £5.5m on turnover of £54.4m for the six months ended 31 March, up from profit of £4m on sales of £34.7m for the corresponding period in 1998.