hlw Keeble Hawson acts in Barnsley payment systems specialist acquisition

22nd May 2018

Barnsley-based Nationwide Retail Systems Limited has been acquired by Civica UK Limited - a market leading specialist in business-critical software applications - for an undisclosed sum.

hlw Keeble Hawson represented Nationwide Retail Systems, a market leader in cashless catering systems which has more than 2,000 installations with local authority, school and college customers, in its sale to Civica UK, the wholly owned subsidiary of The Civica Group. Civica's payment software is used to process transactions for over 15 million people in the UK. The deal complements the company's organic growth strategy to acquire software-based businesses which extend its leading position in existing and adjacent market sectors. Nationwide Retail Systems, whose EPOS solutions are also used by UK commercial organisations including Travelodge and Genting Casinos, adds technologies that Civica currently does not offer. Both companies have a history of working together successfully on schools programmes for customers including Telford and Wrekin Council, Torfaen Council and Wrexham Council. Wayne Story, chief executive of Civica, said: -I am delighted to welcome Nationwide Retail Systems Limited to the Civica Group. The team brings technology and expertise which increases our market presence and capability at an important time for our customers as all organisations look to meet growing expectations through digital technology and automation and as cashless payments begin to grow in popularity. David Paylor, chief business development officer at Nationwide Retail Systems, said: -We are extremely excited to become part of the Civica Group. We strongly believe that this is a very positive move which will help us to grow and expand our offerings into both the UK and international markets. -We are extremely proud of our position as market leaders but Civica's knowledge and experience in providing software solutions will be invaluable as we continue our development. The introduction of Civica Payments will also broaden our scope and reach into the education sector and beyond. Henry Hill, hlw Keeble Hawson associate, said: -Nationwide Retail Systems has built an impressive track record as a leading provider of integrated payment solutions. This milestone development brings potential for further national and global expansion as part of the highly successful and market leading Civica Group. Alan Fletcher, former MD and owner of Nationwide Retail Systems Limited, added: -The takeover of NRS by Civica will combine the very best of breed products for schools, colleges and universities throughout the UK and many other countries in the world. I look forward to seeing the continued development of both existing and new products through the integration of NRS with Civica's extensive knowledge of cloud-based systems and commitment to software development. Civica UK was represented by Charles Russell Speechlys LLP solicitors. hlw Keeble Hawson's award-wining 14-strong corporate team is one of the largest in the Yorkshire region.