Life IT buys PSSL in IBM partner union

Cheshire VARs tie the knot as hardware specialist walks software firm down the aisle in Big Blue wedding

IBM hardware and consultancy specialist Life IT has bought into Big Blue's software channel by acquiring Professional Software Solutions Ltd (PSSL) for an undisclosed sum.

Life IT, which is an IBM Premier Business Partner, specialises in services in the vendor's System i computing platforms. Based in Cheshire – like its new owner – PSSL is an Advanced IBM partner, working predominantly in Big Blue's mid-range software.

PSSL also has distribution partnerships with eight software developers, and holds the European rights to distribute Mark Magic barcode label software. Jill Sherratt, chief executive of Life IT, claimed this partnership "will extend our application integrations and mobile capabilities".

"The acquisition means we will be able to offer everything a customer needs to implement identity technologies, including bar code scanners, RFID readers, printers and bar code labels for a wide range of applications such as time and attendance, asset tracking, stock control and compliance," she said.

Sherratt added that PSSL brings with it an impressive roster of blue-ribbon clients, including Citibank, Royal Doulton, Russell & Bromley and BOC.

"It's an exciting time for Life IT: we are an experienced IBM hardware partner, and the PSSL distribution agreements allow us to expand our business – not only in the UK, but potentially in Europe too," she said.