Global Fastener News

Activant Acquires Fastener Distribution Software Provider Prophet 21

John Wolz

Activant Solutions Inc. has agreed to acquire Prophet 21 for $215 million. Both software firms specialize in the wholesale distribution industry.
Prophet 21, founded in 1967, acquired fastener software developer Faspac in 2003.

Activant CEO Larry Jones said the acquisition is part of a growth strategy in vertical business management for small and medium sized-businesses.
“Prophet 21’s next generation business management solution, CommerceCenter, and e-commerce offering, Trading Partner Connect, give Activant a more comprehensive solution set that deepens our market expertise and leadership in the wholesale distribution industry,” Jones said.
In addition to the fastener industry, Prophet 21 provides software in the industrial, electrical, fluid power, medical, HVAC, plumbing, tile, paper, packaging and janitorial industries.
Prophet 21 CEO Chuck Boyle noted that both Activant and Prophet 21 are focused on distributors. “By leveraging the combined resources of both products that will help our customers grow their businesses to the next level,” Boyle commented.

The deal is expected to close in September and the purchase price is subject to “certain adjustments.” Austin, TX-based Activant, founded in 1972, has more than 20,000 customer locations.
Faspac had been the most visible fastener software company in the industry. Partners and founders Margaret Jackson and Neil Hadfield were active in fastener associations and on technical committees.
Yardley, PA-based Prophet 21 reported 70 fastener company customers when it acquired Faspac with 370 customers.
Web: p21.com or activant.com �2005 FastenerNews.com