Paragon sees virtue in Axida, one of Hull’s most successful digital businesses

Paragon Software Systems acquired a majority stake in Axida for an undisclosed sum.

Axida, which was founded in 1995 at the dawn of the internet age, specialises in two-man home delivery software services which improve customer service and profitability for a blue-chip customer base including Ikea, Laura Ashley and Wickes.

Paragon is a market leader in transport optimisation with more than 3,300 routing and scheduling systems installed in more than 1,000 client sites in 50 countries.

Customers include Asda, Royal Mail, Harrods and Sainsbury’s.

Axida was owned by Wayne Holgate and Len Robinson. The share purchase coincides with Mr Robinson’s retirement. He declined to comment when approached by The Yorkshire Post.

Mr Holgate will retain a large part of his shareholding and will continue to lead Axida.

He said: “The deal cements a long-term working relationship between the two companies and brings together our complementary software solutions, giving both companies greater potential to build on the strong growth already achieved.”

The new business will have a combined turnover of £11m, but the two companies will continue to operate as separate entities.

William Salter, director of Paragon, said: “Overall this represents a very exciting opportunity for both Axida and Paragon, and will enable us to really build our presence in the fast-growing home delivery sector.

“The deal also affords us the opportunity to sell Axida’s new proof-of-delivery software product, called fleXipod, to our large client base.”

Axida’s shareholders were advised by Jim Whittaker and Alan Metcalfe at Baker Tilly and Nasim Sharf at Rollits.