Solen Software Group has acquired distrib-u-tec, the ERP business of InterSect Business Systems, expanding its portfolio of mission-critical software for food distribution, packing and processing companies across North America.
distrib-u-tec will become part of smrtr, Inc., a Solen portfolio company that provides workflow automation software for manufacturing, distribution, and food and beverage businesses. The company will continue operating from British Columbia with its existing team and customer relationships.
Founded by Dietz and June Nicolay and incorporated in 1996, InterSect developed distrib-u-tec in collaboration with six food distributors and packers between 1996 and 1999. Most of those original customers remain with the company today.
The platform has since evolved into an integrated ERP and accounting system covering sales and order entry, inventory and warehouse management, production, purchasing and accounting.
Its software is designed specifically around the operational requirements of food distributors, manufacturers, packers and processors.
Solen said the acquisition was driven by distrib-u-tec’s domain expertise, customer loyalty and the importance of its software to daily customer operations.
Under Solen’s ownership model, distrib-u-tec will retain its existing staff and customer contacts while receiving additional resources for product development, customer service and long-term growth.
The transaction also broadens smrtr’s platform deeper into food-distribution ERP.
smrtr currently provides accounts payable automation, compliance management, electronic proof of delivery and document management software to companies operating across complex supply chains.
By adding distrib-u-tec, smrtr gains a more comprehensive ERP layer covering core operating and financial processes.
Solen describes itself as a permanent-capital software acquirer focused on owning mission-critical software businesses over long periods rather than pursuing short-duration investment exits.
Its decentralized operating model is designed to keep decision-making close to customers while reinvesting in products, employees and customer outcomes.
For distrib-u-tec, the combination provides a long-term ownership structure while retaining the specialized industry knowledge that has supported the business for roughly three decades.
KEY QUOTES:
“distrib-u-tec was built hand in hand with our customers, and that partnership has always been what matters most. In smrtr and Solen we found a partner that shares that philosophy, one committed to supporting our customers and our team for the long term.”
June Nicolay, Founder and President of distrib-u-tec
“By welcoming distrib-u-tec into smrtr, we are deepening our commitment to the food and beverage industry, giving customers continuity today, with more resources and expertise behind them for the long term.”
Susanne Moore, CEO of smrtr
“The company’s customers trust it with absolutely critical aspects of their operations, from orders to inventory and books.”
Will Nouse, Director of M&A at Solen Software Group
