Kerridge acquisition by ADP establishes global capability for the retail automotive market

The acquisition of Kerridge by ADP has established a unique global capability to provide and support IT products for the retail automotive, vehicle importer and fleet market place.

As a privately owned company, Kerridge has been extremely successful in the UK and operates an extensive product and service network through its own offices in Europe, South Africa and the Far East. Kerridge distributors are responsible for deploying products in the other strategic international markets. The combined operations provide resources to market the Autoline dealer management system in more than 40 countries worldwide - the system is available in 15 different languages. A further strength of the company's capability are the technical and marketing relationships that Kerridge has with many motor manufacturers, importers, industry suppliers and trade associations.

With annual revenues in the region of $130m and a 1,300 strong workforce, Kerridge has had to consider the long-term strategy to market its products worldwide and to optimise how best to serve the needs of its customers and staff. To achieve the objectives set by the board, the opportunity to accept the offer for acquisition by ADP was in the best long-term interests of all the stakeholders.

Gordon Wilson, managing director of Kerridge Automotive Systems, commented, "The future of the company will benefit enormously from being associated with a large organisation. The acquisition willenable us to grow and capitalise on the joint synergies and the market potential for our products. Through the considerable strengths of ADP we believe that we will not only be able to meet the evolving needs of our customers but can also introduce the strengths and capabilities of our combined organisation into new markets."

The Autoline dealer management system, the Autoline importer management system and the Kerridge Fleet products will continue to be marketed and supported, the existing management structure remaining largely unchanged. Day-to-day contact points and business operations will continue and customer service levels will be maintained and developed. The value of the acquisition is that Kerridge is now able to benefit from the financial strengths of ADP, an $8.5 billion turnover company with 42,000 members of staff. The acquisition brings market knowledge, experience and a proven track record in the automotive sector.

"The acquisition of Kerridge Computer Company Limited is a very positive investment in the company's product and service portfolio and its staff." commented Peter Granson, head of ADP Dealer Services International.

"In bringing this acquisition together, Kerridge has provided its customers with a very secure future. ADP is the best partner to bring this to life." Richard Bennett, chairman Kerridge Computer Company Limited.