The Buzzacott M&A team is delighted to have assisted Cadcorp Limited on its sale to NEC Software Solutions.

Overview of the deal  

Buzzacott advised the shareholders of Cadcorp, a leading UK-based provider of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and web mapping software. This strategic acquisition enhances NEC’s capabilities in delivering advanced, location-based intelligence to local authorities and public safety organisations across the UK and beyond. 

Cadcorp will join NEC, bringing with it a wealth of expertise in spatial data analysis, cloud-hosted mapping solutions, and geospatial consultancy. 

Who was involved? 

Cadcorp Limited is a leading UK-based provider of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and web mapping software. Founded in 1991, Cadcorp has built a strong reputation for delivering flexible, interoperable geospatial solutions tailored to the needs of public sector organisations. Its flagship product, Cadcorp SIS, is widely used by a range of sectors including emergency services, government, land and property, energy, infrastructure, social housing, finance and environment to improve their services, accessibility and performance. 

NEC Software Solutions provides software and IT services to public sector organisations, including government departments, emergency services, healthcare providers, and housing associations. Its solutions support critical functions such as public safety, health screening, case management, and local authority operations.  

The integration of Cadcorp’s technology with NEC’s existing platforms will enable a more connected and responsive approach for NEC’s markets and customers. 

Highlights of the deal

Finding the right home for the business was paramount to Cadcorp’s Shareholders, ensuring that the business’ heritage of 30-plus years was preserved, whilst best positioning it for future growth. With strong interest from multiple parties, the challenge was to balance the cultural alignment (which was very important to the Shareholders) while maximising value through buyer negotiations. Certainty on both price and execution from a credible acquirer was critical to success. We adopted a rare approach, pre-agreeing the EV-to-Equity Bridge negotiations before signing Heads of Terms with the preferred party. This eliminated post-signing adjustments and safeguarded the headline value from the outset.