The deal is ClearCourse’s fifth acquisition since its foundation in October 2018 and represents an expansion of the fast-growing Partnership’s offering into the events, exhibitions and conference space.
Founded in 1994 and headquartered in Newbury, Circdata was originally a data management company and has since developed into a leading event technology business, providing software solutions to many of the world’s largest exhibition and conference organisers. Its proprietary software platform, Fusion, offers a suite of services connected on one technological platform that aide exhibitor management, visitor registration, ticket sales and subscriptions.
Circdata employs about 55 people across its head office in the UK and R&D team in Poland. It is approved by BACS for the handling of direct debit payments and is a certified partner of both Microsoft and Apteco Faststats.
Following the acquisition, the company will be led by Chris Clipston, in his new role as Managing Director of Circdata, and the existing management team. James Ormiston, Circdata’s founder, will transition to an advisory and consulting role, working closely with the ClearCourse senior team, says the company.
ClearCourse seeks to acquire innovative technology companies that provide software and services to a variety of membership organisations including non-profits, trade associations, trade unions, sporting bodies and charities. Since its foundation in 2018, the Partnership has acquired four other UK-based software and service providers: MillerTech, Silverbear, Clear Direct Debit and APT Solutions. The acquisition of Circdata will expand ClearCourse’s offering into the events, exhibitions and conference space, extending the Partnership’s customer base and creating new opportunities for collaboration across the group. As part of the Partnership, Circdata will gain access to strategic guidance as well as financial and operational support provided by ClearCourse. Additionally, ClearCourse clients will benefit from the services delivered by Circdata.
Gerry Gualtieri, CEO of ClearCourse, commented: “We are delighted to announce the addition of Circdata to the Partnership. Our mission is to foster talent and innovation in the membership software space, supporting the growth and development of dynamic tech companies through the provision of both capital and operational resource. Circdata’s addition to the group will create several operational and market synergies with our existing companies.”
James Ormiston, Founder of Circdata, added: “Becoming part of the ClearCourse Partnership was an attractive option for ensuring the continued development and growth of Circdata. With several new products and projects in its pipeline, we were looking for a partner that could provide both operational expertise and financial support. In ClearCourse we also found a community of like-minded businesses offering ample opportunity for collaboration and the realisation of synergies.”
The financial terms of the deal are undisclosed.
