Jump to content

Softline (South African software company): Difference between revisions

Add links
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Browse history interactively
← Previous edit
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
merge 'silos' and 'brands'
→External links: netcash no longer sage
 
(34 intermediate revisions by 7 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{distinguish|Softline International}}
{{distinguish|Softline International}}
{{other uses|Softline (disambiguation){{!}}Softline}}
{{other uses|Softline (disambiguation){{!}}Softline}}
{{advert|date=January 2017}}
{{Infobox company
{{Infobox company
| name = Softline
| name = Softline
| logo = Softline (South African software company) logo.jpg
| logo =
| logo_caption = Former Softline Pastel product logo.
| type = [[Software]]
| industry =
| type = Subsidiary
| industry = [[Software]]
| fate =
| fate = Now operates as a division of Sage
| predecessor = <!-- or: | predecessors = -->
| predecessor = <!-- or: | predecessors = -->
| successor = <!-- or: | successors = -->
| successor = Sage South Africa
| founded =1988
| founded = {{start date|1988}}<ref name="times"/>
| founders = Ivan Epstein<br>Alan Orsin
| founders = {{ubl|Ivan Epstein|Alan Orsin}}<ref name="times"/>
| defunct = <!-- {{End date|YYYY|MM|DD}} -->
| defunct = <!-- {{End date|YYYY|MM|DD}} -->
| hq_location_city =
| hq_location_city = [[Johannesburg]]
| hq_location_country = [[South Africa]]<ref>{{cite web |title=Contact us |url=https://www.sage.com/en-za/about-us/contact-us/ |website=Sage South Africa |access-date=4 June 2022 |language=en-ZA}}</ref>
| hq_location_country = [[South Africa]]
| area_served = <!-- or: | areas_served = -->
| area_served = <!-- or: | areas_served = -->
| key_people =
| key_people =
| products =
| products = Accounting and Payroll products
| owner = <!-- or: | owners = -->
| owner = <!-- or: | owners = -->
| num_employees =
| num_employees =
| num_employees_year = <!-- Year of num_employees data (if known) -->
| num_employees_year = <!-- Year of num_employees data (if known) -->
| parent = [[Sage Group]]
| parent = [[Sage Group]]
| website = <!-- {{URL|example.com}} -->
| website = {{URL|https://www.sage.com/en-za/}}
}}
}}


'''Softline''' was a South African [[enterprise software]] company that existed as an independent company between 1988 and 2003 when it was acquired by the UK-based multinational corporation [[The Sage Group plc]].<ref name="sageacq"/> Sage continued to use Softline as a brand name until 2013 when all of Softline's products were re-branded as Sage.<ref name="brand"/>
'''Sage South Africa''', or formerly known as Softline, which is part of The [[Sage Group]], is a South-African software company that provides business software, services and support to small and medium-sized businesses. Whilst Softline's heritage is in the SME market, the company also sells its services to specific industries and larger organizations. Softline's core solutions cover [[accounting]], ERP, [[Payroll]] and HR, Business Intelligence, [[customer relationship management]] and retail software solutions to small, medium and larger sized companies in [[South Africa]] and [[Australia]].{{Citation needed|date=December 2019}}


Sage's South African business continues to provide Sage's global products as well as local South African solutions that cover [[accounting]], ERP, [[Payroll]] and HR, Business Intelligence, [[customer relationship management]] and retail software solutions to small, medium and larger sized companies in South Africa.<ref>{{cite web |title=Products - Business Management Software and Services |url=https://www.sage.com/en-za/products/ |website=Sage South Africa |access-date=4 June 2022 |language=en-ZA}}</ref>
Softline was founded by Ivan Epstein <ref name="whoswhosa.co.za">{{cite web|url=http://www.whoswhosa.co.za/ivan-epstein-63330|title=Ivan Epstein - Who's Who SA|website=Whoswhosa.co.za|accessdate=25 June 2016}}</ref> and Alan Osrin in 1988. In 2003, Softline was acquired by The Sage Group plc.


==History==
== History ==
Softline was founded by Ivan Epstein<ref name="whoswhosa.co.za">{{cite web|url=http://www.whoswhosa.co.za/ivan-epstein-63330|title=Ivan Epstein - Who's Who SA|website=Whoswhosa.co.za|accessdate=25 June 2016}}</ref> and Alan Osrin in 1988 during the formative years of the software industry<ref name="pastcn">{{cite web |title=Softline Name Change |url=http://root.pastel.co.za/Accounting-Software-Newsroom/2013/Local-Business-Software-Leader-Softline-Announces-Name-Change.asp |website=Sage Pastel Accounting |access-date=4 June 2022 |date=February 2013}}</ref> with a mere R1,500 loan. The two founding members of Softline were soon joined by local entrepreneur Steven Cohen in 1990.<ref name="pastcn"/>
=== Founding of Softline (1988-1990)===
Softline was founded by Ivan Epstein<ref name="whoswhosa.co.za"/> and Alan Osrin in 1988 during the formative years of the software industry with a mere R1, 500 loan. The two founding members of Softline were soon joined by local entrepreneur Steven Cohen in 1990.


By 1993, more than 20,000 South African businesses were utilising Softline's Brilliant Accounting products aimed primarily at medium-sized enterprises. In 1994, Ivan Epstein secured a long-term agreement with [[Intuit]], granting Softline exclusive distribution rights to the Intuit range of products in Southern Africa; Intuit acquired the South African business back from Softline in 2006.<ref>{{cite web |title=QuickBooks buys local business and takes competition head on |url=https://www.itweb.co.za/content/GxwQD71mnAn7lPVo |website=ITWeb |access-date=4 June 2022 |language=en |date=1 January 2006}}</ref>
===Development and distribution of Brilliant Accounting (1990-1994)===
After identifying a gap in the South African market for locally developed, user-friendly accounting software aimed primarily at medium-sized enterprises, Softline developed and launched a range of accounting software products under the name Brilliant Accounting. Within 2 years, Brilliant Accounting became a household name and achieved "Best Seller Status". By 1993, more than 20,000 South African businesses were utilising Brilliant Accounting. The Brilliant Suite of products were expanded to address several vertical markets. A national distribution infrastructure was established by Softline as well as a division to service and support Softline's growing base of Brilliant users. In 1994, Ivan Epstein secured a long-term agreement with Intuit, granting Softline exclusive distribution rights to the Intuit range of products in Southern Africa. This further strengthened Softline's position in the accounting software market.{{citation needed|date=September 2012}}


Softline experienced growth during the 1990s and by 1995 began to actively pursue the implementation of Softline's listing in the [[Johannesburg Stock Exchange]]. During this time, Softline's reseller base extended into Africa. On 19 February 1997, Softline Limited listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange with a market capitalization of R250m (£20m).<ref name="times">{{cite news |title=Hard choices for software firm |url=https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/hard-choices-for-software-firm-8262vhbwl92 |access-date=4 June 2022 |work=The Times |date=7 April 2005 |language=en}}</ref>
== Acquisitions ==


In October 1997, the black empowerment group [[Hosken Consolidated Investments]] (HCI) acquired 20% interest in Softline.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Wet |first1=Phillip de |title=HCI sells Softline, safety net in place |url=https://www.itweb.co.za/content/xnklOvzbGo2v4Ymz |website=ITWeb |access-date=4 June 2022 |language=en |date=7 May 1999}}</ref> In a back-to-back transaction, Softline acquired 60% of US-based SVI Holdings Inc., for R150 million.<ref name="SVIITWEB">{{cite news |title=Softline's SVI lists on American Stock Exchange |url=https://www.itweb.co.za/content/xA9POvNYKAzqo4J8 |access-date=4 June 2022 |work=ITWeb |date=16 July 1998 |language=en}}</ref> This transaction marked Softline's entry into international markets.<ref name="SVIAus"/> At this time, SVI had operations based in the US and Australia.<ref name="SVIAus">{{cite news |title=Softline Limited 60% owned subsidiary SVI Holdings Announces Six Months Results |url=https://www.itweb.co.za/content/O2rQGqApwBeMd1ea |access-date=4 June 2022 |work=ITWeb |date=1 June 1998 |language=en}}</ref> SVI Holdings Inc. had previously acquired Divergent Technologies Pty Ltd Propriety Limited in [[Sydney, Australia]] in October 1996,<ref name="SVIAus"/> Applied Retail Solutions in [[San Diego, California]] to enter the [[point of sale]] market in the USA in July 1998<ref>{{cite web |title=SVI Holdings Inc. Announces Acquisition of Applied Retail Solutions |url=https://indexarticles.com/business/business-wire/svi-holdings-inc-announces-acquisition-of-applied-retail-solutions/ |website=IndexArticles |access-date=4 June 2022 |date=30 June 2021}}</ref> and Island Pacific Systems in [[Irvine, California]], a leading retail applications' software group in the USA candour in July 1999.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Peters |first1=Kurt |title=SVI Announces the Return of Island Pacific |url=https://www.digitalcommerce360.com/2002/04/03/svi-announces-the-return-of-island-pacific/ |website=Digital Commerce 360 |access-date=4 June 2022 |date=3 April 2002}}</ref> In July 1998, SVI transferred its listing to the [[American Stock Exchange]] (AMEX:SVI).<ref name="SVIITWEB"/>
===Formation and growth of Softline Holdings (1995-1997)===
Softline experienced growth during the 1990s and by 1995 began to actively pursue the implementation of Softline's listing in the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. During this time, Softline's reseller base extended into Africa and the company made the following acquisitions:


=== Sale to Sage ===
In 2003, Softline was delisted from the Johannesburg Stock Exchange to be acquired by [[The Sage Group plc]], one of the leading providers of business management software and services to SME's.<ref name="sageacq">{{cite web |title=Sage Acquisition of Softline Finalized |url=https://www.accountingtoday.com/news/sage-acquisition-of-softline-finalized |website=Accounting Today |access-date=4 June 2022 |location=Scottsdale, Arizona, USA |language=en |date=18 November 2003}}</ref>

In 1989, Alan Ware and Jeremy Waterman established LA Technology, the distributor for Accpac International throughout sub-Saharan Africa.<ref name="itwaccpac">{{cite news |last1=Norwood-Young |first1=Jason |title=Accpac to acquire local distributor, LA Technology |url=https://www.itweb.co.za/content/mYZRXM9P95w7OgA8 |access-date=4 June 2022 |work=ITWeb |date=8 June 2000 |language=en}}</ref> LA Technology was later acquired by Accpac International in 2000 and became known as ACCPAC Africa.<ref name="itwaccpac"/> In 2004, ACCPAC Africa was acquired by the Sage Group plc from [[Computer Associates]]<ref>{{cite web |title=Sage buys ACCPAC for $110m |url=https://www.theregister.com/Print/2004/01/02/sage_buys_accpac_for_110m/ |website=The Register |access-date=4 June 2022 |date=2 January 2004}}</ref> and was renamed Softline Accpac.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Communications |first1=Watt |title=Softline ACCPAC launches warehouse management system |url=https://www.itweb.co.za/content/JBwEr7nNwKe76Db2 |website=ITWeb |access-date=4 June 2022 |language=en |date=3 May 2006}}</ref>

In May 2010, Softline announced the acquisition of [[Netcash]] (Pty) Ltd,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sage.com/ourbusiness/newsroom/newsfromourregionalbusinesses/view/1699 |title=The Sage Group PLC – Softline acquires a leading Transaction Services Provider, Netcash |accessdate=October 3, 2011 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110926002821/http://sage.com/ourbusiness/newsroom/newsfromourregionalbusinesses/view/1699 |archivedate=September 26, 2011 }}</ref> a company that provides transaction processing services that was founded in 2002.<ref>{{cite web |title=Softline - Sage - Netcash - Payment Provider |url=https://sagepay.co.za/softline-acquires-leading-transaction-service-provider-netcash/ |website=SagePay South Africa |access-date=20 November 2019 |date=1 November 2012}}</ref> Softline integrated Netcash into their accounting and payroll products. In 2013, Netcash was rebranded as Sage Pay<ref>{{cite web |url=https://sagepay.co.za/sage-netcash-rebrands-to-sage-pay/ |title=Sage Netcash rebrands to Sage Pay |publisher=Sage Pay (Pty) Ltd. |date=2013 |access-date=6 May 2019}}</ref> before being sold in a management buyout<ref>{{cite web |title=Full Year 2019 Results press release |url=https://www.sage.com/investors/-/media/files/investors/documents/pdf/downloads/results/full%20year%202019%20results/full%20year%202019%20results%20press%20release.pdf |website=Sage Group plc |access-date=20 November 2019 }}</ref> and again becoming Netcash in 2019.<ref>{{cite web |title=Netcash brand reveal |url=https://netcash.co.za/test/ |website=Netcash |access-date=8 December 2019 |date=1 December 2019}}</ref>

In 2013 Sage embarked on a programme of uniforming their product names and offerings and moved away from using the Softline brand name, branding the former Softline products as Sage.<ref name="brand">{{cite web |title=Softline is now Sage |url=https://businesstech.co.za/news/software/30660/softline-is-now-sage/ |website=Business Tech |access-date=4 June 2022 |date=28 January 2013}}</ref>

== Acquisitions ==
Softline's acquisitions included:
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|-
! Date
! Date
! Acquisition
! Acquisition
|-
| March 1996
| Softline Limited acquires 100% of Computer Parts
|-
|-
| November 1996
| November 1996
| Softline Limited acquires 100% of Ultra Technologies
| Softline Limited acquires 100% of Ultra Technologies<ref>{{cite web |title=Softline to create network for leading Union |url=https://www.itweb.co.za/content/5yONP7EEwZw7XWrb |website=ITWeb |access-date=4 June 2022 |language=en |date=11 March 1998}}</ref>
|-
|-
| November 1996
| November 1996
| Softline Limited acquires 100% of MasterSkill Training
| Softline Limited acquires 100% of MasterSkill Training<ref>{{cite web |last1=PR |first1=Headlines |title=MasterSkill partners with Unisa |url=https://www.itweb.co.za/content/G98YdqLx3DJqX2PD |website=ITWeb |language=en |date=9 July 2002}}</ref>
|-
|}

In December 1996, Softline Distribution was awarded the Computer Reseller News Channel Champion Accounting software Award 1996.

On 19 February 1997, Softline Limited lists on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange with a market capitalization of R250m (£20m).Later in the year, Softline Limited reported above forecast maiden results for yearend February 1997 and Ivan Epstein selected as a Computer Reseller News Channel Executive 1997 - Top 20 Movers and Shakers in Southern Hemisphere.{{citation needed|date=September 2012}} Softline Limited also completed the following acquisitions in 1997:
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Date
! Acquisition
|-
| March 1997
| Softline Limited acquires 100% of PCI
|-
|-
| May 1997
| May 1997
| Softline Limited acquires 100% of Multisoft SA
| Softline Limited acquires 100% of Multisoft SA<ref name="SVIAus"/>
|-
|-
| August 1997
| August 1997
| Softline Limited acquires 100% of IBIS Services. This was Softline Limited's first off-shore acquisition. IBIS Services, based in the United Kingdom, a developer and distributor of accounting software specifically for the Construction and Plant Hire industries.
| Softline Limited acquires 100% of IBIS Services. This was Softline Limited's first off-shore acquisition. IBIS Services, based in the United Kingdom, a developer and distributor of accounting software specifically for the Construction and Plant Hire industries.<ref name="SVIAus"/>
|-
|-
| August 1997
| August 1997
| Softline Limited acquires 100% of ISU Campus
| Softline Limited acquires 100% of ISU Campus<ref name="SVIITWEB"/>
|-
|}

In October 1997, the black empowerment group [[Hosken Consolidated Investments]] (HCI) acquired 20% interest in Softline. In a back-to-back transaction, Softline acquired 60% of US-based SVI Holdings Inc., for R150 million. This transaction marked Softline's entry into international markets. At this time, SVI had operations based in the US and Australia.

During 1998 Softline made the following acquisitions:

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Date
! Acquisition
|-
|-
| April 1998
| April 1998
| Softline acquired VIP Payroll Systems one of South Africa's largest payroll developers and implementers
| Softline acquired VIP Payroll Systems one of South Africa's largest payroll developers and implementers<ref>{{cite web |title=Sage South Africa {{!}} ITWeb |url=http://pressoffice.itweb.co.za/sage-southafrica/PressRelease.php?StoryID=186334 |website=pressoffice.itweb.co.za |access-date=4 June 2022}}</ref>
|-
|-
| May 1998
| May 1998
| Softline increased the group's presence in the accounting software market through the acquisition of Lorge & Associates
| Softline increased the group's presence in the accounting software market through the acquisition of Lorge & Associates<ref>{{cite web |title=Softline adds value with two acquisitions |url=https://www.itweb.co.za/content/WnxpE74Dko87V8XL |website=ITWeb |access-date=4 June 2022 |language=en |date=1 June 1998}}</ref>
|-
|-
| July 1998
| July 1998
| Softline Limited acquired [[Sybiz Software Pty Ltd|Sybiz Software]] in Adelaide Australia for A$10m
| Softline Limited acquired [[Sybiz Software Pty Ltd|Sybiz Software]] in Adelaide Australia for A$10m.<ref name="sybiz"/> Sybiz was later sold in 2005 in a management buyout.<ref name="sybiz">{{cite web |title=About Us - Sybiz Software |url=https://www.sybiz.com/About-Us |website=www.sybiz.com |access-date=4 June 2022}}</ref>
|-
|-
| November 1998
| November 1998
| Softline moved into the hospitality Point-Of Sale with the Acquisition of 100% of Pilot Software
| Softline moved into the hospitality Point-Of Sale with the Acquisition of 100% of Pilot Software<ref>{{cite web |title=Softline goes POS |url=https://www.itweb.co.za/content/5yONP7EEwa27XWrb |website=ITWeb |access-date=4 June 2022 |language=en |date=24 March 1998}}</ref>
|-
|}

In July 1998, SVI transferred its listing to the American Stock Exchange (AMEX:SVI). Ivan Epstein, as a board member and director, worked closely with the senior executive management of SVI in refining their focus, assessing opportunities, outlining strategies and raising the profile of SVI in the investment community in the USA.

In 1999, Softline Limited went on to make a number of additional acquisitions, including:

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Date
! Acquisition
|-
|-
| January 1999
| January 1999
| Softline enters USA market directly via the 100% acquisition of Datafaction
| Softline enters USA market directly via the 100% acquisition of Datafaction<ref>{{cite web |title=Softline buys California-based Datafaction for R32m |url=https://www.itweb.co.za/content/LPp6V7r4b2GqDKQz |website=ITWeb |access-date=4 June 2022 |language=en |date=7 January 1999}}</ref>
|-
|-
| January 1999
| January 1999
| Softline Limited acquires major competitor Pastel Software - A significant milestone in the history of Softline was the acquisition of Pastel Software. This acquisition consolidated Softline's position as the largest accounting software vendor in southern Africa (with an estimated 80% market share) and then the second largest in Australia.
| Softline Limited acquires major competitor Pastel Software - A significant milestone in the history of Softline was the acquisition of Pastel Software.<ref>{{cite web |title=Softline acquires Pastel Group for R200m |url=https://www.itweb.co.za/content/KzQenvj8DlaMZd2r |website=ITWeb |access-date=4 June 2022 |language=en |date=17 February 1999}}</ref> This acquisition consolidated Softline's position as the largest accounting software vendor in southern Africa (with an estimated 80% market share) and then the second largest in Australia.
|-
|-
| April 1999
| April 1999
| Softline acquires 100% of Opensoft a developer of e-commerce applications
| Softline acquires 100% of Opensoft a developer of e-commerce applications<ref>{{cite web |title=Softline Group buys local e-commerce company |url=https://www.itweb.co.za/content/j5alr7Ql5D6vpYQk |website=ITWeb |access-date=4 June 2022 |language=en |date=13 April 1999}}</ref>
|-
|-
| August 1999
| August 1999
| Softline acquires 100% of Handisoft, a leading provider of taxation and practice management software and furthers its presence in Australia
| Softline acquires 100% of Handisoft, a leading provider of taxation and practice management software and furthers its presence in Australia<ref>{{cite web |title=Software houses to change hands |url=https://www.smh.com.au/technology/software-houses-to-change-hands-20030930-gdhhhv.html |website=The Sydney Morning Herald |language=en |access-date=4 June 2022 |date=30 September 2003}}</ref>
|-
|-
| November 1999
| November 1999
| Softline acquires 100% of ATS, an [[Accpac]] solution provider to strengthen its skills in the mid-range accounting software space
| Softline acquires 100% of ATS, an [[Accpac]] solution provider to strengthen its skills in the mid-range accounting software space<ref>{{cite web |title=Softline group buys ATS |url=https://www.itweb.co.za/content/GxwQDM1AloLMlPVo |website=ITWeb |access-date=4 June 2022 |language=en |date=3 February 2000}}</ref>
|-
|-
| April 2000
| April 2000
| Softline established its footprint in Canada through the 100% acquisition of Businessvision in Toronto
| Softline established its footprint in Canada through the 100% acquisition of Businessvision in Toronto<ref>{{cite web |title=Softline's BusinessVision best of the best in Canada and USA |url=https://www.itweb.co.za/content/lLn147myWwY7J6Aa |website=ITWeb |access-date=4 June 2022 |language=en |date=2 April 2001}}</ref>
|-
|-
| November 2000
| November 2000
| Softline furthers its presence in the United States through the 100% acquisition of Accountmate, a developer of midrange accounting software based in California
| Softline furthers its presence in the United States through the 100% acquisition of Accountmate, a developer of midrange accounting software based in California<ref>{{cite web |title=Softline acquires 100% of AccountMate Software Corporation |url=https://www.itweb.co.za/content/KA3WwMdlo1yMrydZ |website=ITWeb |access-date=4 June 2022 |language=en |date=6 December 2000}}</ref>
|-
| May 2002
| Softline strengthens its position in the Australian Payroll market via the 100% acquisition of one of Australia's largest payroll developers
|-
|}

In 2003, Softline was delisted from the Johannesburg Stock Exchange to be acquired by The Sage Group plc, one of the leading providers of business management software and services to SME's.

In 1989, Alan Ware and Jeremy Waterman established LA Technology, the distributor for Accpac International throughout sub Saharan Africa. LA Technology was later acquired by Accpac International in 2000 and became known as ACCPAC Africa. In 2004, ACCPAC Africa was acquired by the Sage Group plc and was renamed Softline Accpac.

In May 2010, Softline announced the acquisition of Netcash (Pty) Ltd,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sage.com/ourbusiness/newsroom/newsfromourregionalbusinesses/view/1699 |title=Archived copy |accessdate=October 3, 2011 |url-status=dead |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110926002821/http://sage.com/ourbusiness/newsroom/newsfromourregionalbusinesses/view/1699 |archivedate=September 26, 2011 }}</ref> a company that provides transaction processing services in three primary areas: electric funds transfer payments, debit order collections and credit card transaction processing. Through the acquisition, Softline was able to provide a solution to SMEs that enabled them to transact in EFT's, debit orders and credit card transactions directly from their back-office accounting and payroll applications.
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Date
! Acquisition
|-
| October 1996
| SVI Holdings Inc. acquires 100% of Divergent Technologies Pty Ltd Propriety Limited In Sydney Australia
|-
| July 1998
| SVI Holdings Inc. acquires 100% of Applied Retail Solutions in San Diego California to enter the Point-Of Sale market in the USA
|-
| July 1999
| SVI Holdings Inc. acquires 100% of Island Pacific Systems in Irvine California, a leading retail applications software group in the USA candour
|-
|-
|}
|}


==Products==
==Products==
Sage South Africa provide Sage's global products as well as local software including:
*Softline Enterprise
* Softline Enterprise
*Softline Accpac<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.softline.co.za/YourBusiness/Your-Business-Accpac.asp|title=Sage South Africa - Software & Solutions for any size business|website=Softline.co.za|accessdate=25 June 2016}}</ref> is a full service enterprise management software package that can be used across industries.
* Softline Accpac is a full service enterprise management software package that can be used across industries.
*[[Pastel Accounting]], now known as Sage 50,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.softline.co.za/YourBusiness/Your-Business-Accounting.asp|title=Sage South Africa - Software & Solutions for any size business|website=Softline.co.za|accessdate=25 June 2016}}</ref> is an accounting software package that is used by over 200 000 companies in 52 countries across the globe.
* [[Pastel Accounting]], now known as Sage 50, is an accounting software package that is used by over 200,000 companies in 52 countries across the globe.
*Pastel Payroll <ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.softline.co.za/YourBusiness/Your-Business-Payroll.asp|title=Sage South Africa - Software & Solutions for any size business|website=Softline.co.za|accessdate=25 June 2016}}</ref> is online payroll software product developed by Softline.
* Pastel Payroll is online payroll software product developed by Softline.
*Softline VIP is a Payroll and HR software system for small, medium and large corporations.
* Softline VIP is a Payroll and HR software system for small, medium and large corporations.
* Sage ERP Africa
* Sage ERP Africa
* Sage Alchemex
* Sage Alchemex
Line 169: Line 116:
==References==
==References==
{{Reflist}}
{{Reflist}}

== External links ==
* [https://www.sage.com/en-za/ Sage South Africa]


{{Sage Group}}
{{Sage Group}}
Line 177: Line 127:
[[Category:Software companies of South Africa]]
[[Category:Software companies of South Africa]]
[[Category:Sage Group]]
[[Category:Sage Group]]
[[Category:companies based in Johannesburg]]
[[Category:South African companies established in 1988]]
[[Category:South African companies established in 1988]]

Latest revision as of 11:25, 31 October 2023

Not to be confused with Softline International.
For other uses, see Softline.
Softline
Company typeSubsidiary
IndustrySoftware
Founded1988 (1988)[1]
Founders
  • Ivan Epstein
  • Alan Orsin
[1]
FateNow operates as a division of Sage
SuccessorSage South Africa
Headquarters
Johannesburg
,
South Africa[2]
ProductsAccounting and Payroll products
ParentSage Group
Websitewww.sage.com/en-za/

Softline was a South African enterprise software company that existed as an independent company between 1988 and 2003 when it was acquired by the UK-based multinational corporation The Sage Group plc.[3] Sage continued to use Softline as a brand name until 2013 when all of Softline's products were re-branded as Sage.[4]

Sage's South African business continues to provide Sage's global products as well as local South African solutions that cover accounting, ERP, Payroll and HR, Business Intelligence, customer relationship management and retail software solutions to small, medium and larger sized companies in South Africa.[5]

History

[edit]

Softline was founded by Ivan Epstein[6] and Alan Osrin in 1988 during the formative years of the software industry[7] with a mere R1,500 loan. The two founding members of Softline were soon joined by local entrepreneur Steven Cohen in 1990.[7]

By 1993, more than 20,000 South African businesses were utilising Softline's Brilliant Accounting products aimed primarily at medium-sized enterprises. In 1994, Ivan Epstein secured a long-term agreement with Intuit, granting Softline exclusive distribution rights to the Intuit range of products in Southern Africa; Intuit acquired the South African business back from Softline in 2006.[8]

Softline experienced growth during the 1990s and by 1995 began to actively pursue the implementation of Softline's listing in the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. During this time, Softline's reseller base extended into Africa. On 19 February 1997, Softline Limited listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange with a market capitalization of R250m (£20m).[1]

In October 1997, the black empowerment group Hosken Consolidated Investments (HCI) acquired 20% interest in Softline.[9] In a back-to-back transaction, Softline acquired 60% of US-based SVI Holdings Inc., for R150 million.[10] This transaction marked Softline's entry into international markets.[11] At this time, SVI had operations based in the US and Australia.[11] SVI Holdings Inc. had previously acquired Divergent Technologies Pty Ltd Propriety Limited in Sydney, Australia in October 1996,[11] Applied Retail Solutions in San Diego, California to enter the point of sale market in the USA in July 1998[12] and Island Pacific Systems in Irvine, California, a leading retail applications' software group in the USA candour in July 1999.[13] In July 1998, SVI transferred its listing to the American Stock Exchange (AMEX:SVI).[10]

Sale to Sage

[edit]

In 2003, Softline was delisted from the Johannesburg Stock Exchange to be acquired by The Sage Group plc, one of the leading providers of business management software and services to SME's.[3]

In 1989, Alan Ware and Jeremy Waterman established LA Technology, the distributor for Accpac International throughout sub-Saharan Africa.[14] LA Technology was later acquired by Accpac International in 2000 and became known as ACCPAC Africa.[14] In 2004, ACCPAC Africa was acquired by the Sage Group plc from Computer Associates[15] and was renamed Softline Accpac.[16]

In May 2010, Softline announced the acquisition of Netcash (Pty) Ltd,[17] a company that provides transaction processing services that was founded in 2002.[18] Softline integrated Netcash into their accounting and payroll products. In 2013, Netcash was rebranded as Sage Pay[19] before being sold in a management buyout[20] and again becoming Netcash in 2019.[21]

In 2013 Sage embarked on a programme of uniforming their product names and offerings and moved away from using the Softline brand name, branding the former Softline products as Sage.[4]

Acquisitions

[edit]

Softline's acquisitions included:

Date Acquisition
November 1996 Softline Limited acquires 100% of Ultra Technologies[22]
November 1996 Softline Limited acquires 100% of MasterSkill Training[23]
May 1997 Softline Limited acquires 100% of Multisoft SA[11]
August 1997 Softline Limited acquires 100% of IBIS Services. This was Softline Limited's first off-shore acquisition. IBIS Services, based in the United Kingdom, a developer and distributor of accounting software specifically for the Construction and Plant Hire industries.[11]
August 1997 Softline Limited acquires 100% of ISU Campus[10]
April 1998 Softline acquired VIP Payroll Systems one of South Africa's largest payroll developers and implementers[24]
May 1998 Softline increased the group's presence in the accounting software market through the acquisition of Lorge & Associates[25]
July 1998 Softline Limited acquired Sybiz Software in Adelaide Australia for A$10m.[26] Sybiz was later sold in 2005 in a management buyout.[26]
November 1998 Softline moved into the hospitality Point-Of Sale with the Acquisition of 100% of Pilot Software[27]
January 1999 Softline enters USA market directly via the 100% acquisition of Datafaction[28]
January 1999 Softline Limited acquires major competitor Pastel Software - A significant milestone in the history of Softline was the acquisition of Pastel Software.[29] This acquisition consolidated Softline's position as the largest accounting software vendor in southern Africa (with an estimated 80% market share) and then the second largest in Australia.
April 1999 Softline acquires 100% of Opensoft a developer of e-commerce applications[30]
August 1999 Softline acquires 100% of Handisoft, a leading provider of taxation and practice management software and furthers its presence in Australia[31]
November 1999 Softline acquires 100% of ATS, an Accpac solution provider to strengthen its skills in the mid-range accounting software space[32]
April 2000 Softline established its footprint in Canada through the 100% acquisition of Businessvision in Toronto[33]
November 2000 Softline furthers its presence in the United States through the 100% acquisition of Accountmate, a developer of midrange accounting software based in California[34]

Products

[edit]

Sage South Africa provide Sage's global products as well as local software including:

  • Softline Enterprise
  • Softline Accpac is a full service enterprise management software package that can be used across industries.
  • Pastel Accounting, now known as Sage 50, is an accounting software package that is used by over 200,000 companies in 52 countries across the globe.
  • Pastel Payroll is online payroll software product developed by Softline.
  • Softline VIP is a Payroll and HR software system for small, medium and large corporations.
  • Sage ERP Africa
  • Sage Alchemex

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b c "Hard choices for software firm". The Times. 7 April 2005. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  2. ^ "Contact us". Sage South Africa. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  3. ^ a b "Sage Acquisition of Softline Finalized". Accounting Today. Scottsdale, Arizona, USA. 18 November 2003. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  4. ^ a b "Softline is now Sage". Business Tech. 28 January 2013. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  5. ^ "Products - Business Management Software and Services". Sage South Africa. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  6. ^ "Ivan Epstein - Who's Who SA". Whoswhosa.co.za. Retrieved 25 June 2016.
  7. ^ a b "Softline Name Change". Sage Pastel Accounting. February 2013. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  8. ^ "QuickBooks buys local business and takes competition head on". ITWeb. 1 January 2006. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  9. ^ Wet, Phillip de (7 May 1999). "HCI sells Softline, safety net in place". ITWeb. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  10. ^ a b c "Softline's SVI lists on American Stock Exchange". ITWeb. 16 July 1998. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  11. ^ a b c d e "Softline Limited 60% owned subsidiary SVI Holdings Announces Six Months Results". ITWeb. 1 June 1998. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  12. ^ "SVI Holdings Inc. Announces Acquisition of Applied Retail Solutions". IndexArticles. 30 June 2021. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  13. ^ Peters, Kurt (3 April 2002). "SVI Announces the Return of Island Pacific". Digital Commerce 360. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  14. ^ a b Norwood-Young, Jason (8 June 2000). "Accpac to acquire local distributor, LA Technology". ITWeb. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  15. ^ "Sage buys ACCPAC for $110m". The Register. 2 January 2004. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  16. ^ Communications, Watt (3 May 2006). "Softline ACCPAC launches warehouse management system". ITWeb. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  17. ^ "The Sage Group PLC – Softline acquires a leading Transaction Services Provider, Netcash". Archived from the original on September 26, 2011. Retrieved October 3, 2011.
  18. ^ "Softline - Sage - Netcash - Payment Provider". SagePay South Africa. 1 November 2012. Retrieved 20 November 2019.
  19. ^ "Sage Netcash rebrands to Sage Pay". Sage Pay (Pty) Ltd. 2013. Retrieved 6 May 2019.
  20. ^ "Full Year 2019 Results press release" (PDF). Sage Group plc. Retrieved 20 November 2019.
  21. ^ "Netcash brand reveal". Netcash. 1 December 2019. Retrieved 8 December 2019.
  22. ^ "Softline to create network for leading Union". ITWeb. 11 March 1998. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  23. ^ PR, Headlines (9 July 2002). "MasterSkill partners with Unisa". ITWeb.
  24. ^ "Sage South Africa | ITWeb". pressoffice.itweb.co.za. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  25. ^ "Softline adds value with two acquisitions". ITWeb. 1 June 1998. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  26. ^ a b "About Us - Sybiz Software". www.sybiz.com. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  27. ^ "Softline goes POS". ITWeb. 24 March 1998. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  28. ^ "Softline buys California-based Datafaction for R32m". ITWeb. 7 January 1999. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  29. ^ "Softline acquires Pastel Group for R200m". ITWeb. 17 February 1999. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  30. ^ "Softline Group buys local e-commerce company". ITWeb. 13 April 1999. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  31. ^ "Software houses to change hands". The Sydney Morning Herald. 30 September 2003. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  32. ^ "Softline group buys ATS". ITWeb. 3 February 2000. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  33. ^ "Softline's BusinessVision best of the best in Canada and USA". ITWeb. 2 April 2001. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
  34. ^ "Softline acquires 100% of AccountMate Software Corporation". ITWeb. 6 December 2000. Retrieved 4 June 2022.
[edit]
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Softline_(South_African_software_company)&oldid=1182788388"