Marion, Ohio—Macola Software announced it would be bought by Exact Holding NV, a Dutch-based vendor in international e-business and ERP solutions.

Exact Software vice president Lucas Brentjens says the acquisition will establish a solid platform for Exact to launch its e-Synergy products in the U.S. marketplace, plus extend Exact's middle market ERP presence.

Macola had sought a software partner similarly focused on the global economy for more than a year, CEO Bruce Hollinger says. "We also knew it was equally important to find a partner who shares our corporate values and cultures, and we have found that synergy with Exact," he says.

The two firms plan to integrate Exact's e-Synergy e-business suite with Macola's Progression Series to bring these solutions to U.S. customers. This strategy will enable them to build upon their product strengths, while bringing new e-commerce and e-CRM capabilities to Macola's product suites and providing a unique product offering, officials say.