Consolidation in the distribution software market continued in July, with the announcement that Montreal-based Speedware Corp. would purchase Prelude Systems, a 25-year-old wholesale distribution software company based in Texas.

Publicly traded Speedware (TSX: SPW) provides software solutions and consulting services to a range of customers worldwide. The company has an aggressive growth strategy, with plans to grow internally and by acquisition. The Prelude acquisition will boost Speedware's presence in the distribution market by complementing its Enterprise Computer Systems division, which covers the building materials distribution market.

"We are very excited to welcome Prelude's outstanding team of employees, as well as its large and loyal customer base," said Andrew Gutman, Speedware's CEO. "The acquisition, combined with our offerings in the building materials marketplace through our ECS division, expands our overall reach in the distribution enterprise software market. Prelude, with its customer-centric focus and deep market expertise, is an ideal partner for Speedware, as we continue to drive growth organically and from our ongoing acquisition strategy."

Prelude covers a range of distribution markets, including pool supply, industrial, automotive parts and consumer products.

"Combining with Speedware increases our financial and operating strength for product investment, future acquisitions, and long-term prosperity," said Prelude president Don Webb. "As consolidation in the enterprise software market continues, we are confident that by joining with Speedware, we will be ideally positioned to further serve our customers and to be the vendor of choice for future clients."

There are no layoffs planned as a result of the acquisition, according to Prelude spokesperson Michele Cobb. She added that Prelude will operate as a division of Speedware and will remain in Texas, and that Webb will continue as president of Prelude.