In a significant move within the logistics sector, a new holding company has acquired the freight software specialist Forward Computers, previously owned by Freight Software Group.
- The strategic purchase involved the combined efforts of Davies Turner, Woodland Group, and the Cardinal Partnership, which are aiming to leverage their extensive industry expertise.
- Chief executive Christopher Hewlett expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, highlighting the potential for enhanced development in freight management systems.
- Brian Hay, CEO of the Cardinal Partnership, underscored the acquisition as a means to support the evolution of freight management software in tandem with industry changes.
- The acquisition assures clients of Forward Computers that operations will remain independent and client confidentiality will be maintained.
In a notable consolidation within the logistics industry, three prominent firms – Davies Turner, Woodland Group and the Cardinal Partnership – have joined forces to acquire Forward Computers. This acquisition is accomplished through the establishment of a holding company, aiming to harness the collective expertise and experience of these firms in the realm of freight forwarding and supply chain management. As longstanding clients of Forward Computers, both the Cardinal Partnership and Woodland Group have significant insights into the company’s operations, further deepening this strategic purchase.
According to Christopher Hewlett, chief executive of Freight Software Group, the deal was motivated by the shared interest of these companies in investing in the ongoing advancement of logistics systems. Hewlett’s acknowledgment of the collaborative enthusiasm highlights the industry’s shift towards integrating more sophisticated software solutions, reflecting a forward-thinking attitude in addressing future logistics challenges.
Brian Hay, the CEO of the Cardinal Partnership, praised the acquisition, branding Forward Computers as one of the UK’s leading suppliers of freight transport software. He emphasised the considerable experience amassed by the three firms in providing multimodal solutions, which affords them a unique opportunity to influence the design of future-generation systems to meet evolving industry needs. Hay’s comments reflect an understanding of the necessity for freight management software to evolve in alignment with industry changes continually.
Significantly, the acquisition is poised to positively impact employment, with an expected increase in the workforce at Forward Computers, headquartered in Nottingham. Importantly, the existing IT structures of the three joint venture partners are not anticipated to be adversely affected. This reassurance points to a well-considered transition plan that integrates Forward Computers without disruption to the current operations of the acquiring entities.
Moreover, the assurance of independence and confidentiality for Forward Computers’ clients remains a cornerstone of this acquisition strategy. Despite forming part of a broader corporate entity, Forward Computers will continue under the Forward Solutions brand, ensuring that their clients, many of whom have existing relations with the joint venture’s owners, will experience no disruption in service.
This acquisition exemplifies a strategic enhancement within the freight software sector, fostering innovation while ensuring operational continuity.
