Moscow-based Softline acquires Aplana Group’s software development outsourcing business

We covered Softline back in August after the Moscow, Russia-based global information technology solutions and services provider announced the launch of Maestro, a proprietary cloud management platform. Softline Maestro supports an enterprise cloud portal with a simplified interface for solving IT tasks in self-service mode. The platform monitors compliance with security requirements and reports suspicious activities.

Today, Softline announced it has acquired the software development outsourcing business of the Aplana Group, an IT firm that specializes in custom software and mobile development, big data and analytics, blockchain solutions, testing, and quality assurance. The financial details of the transaction were not disclosed. As part of the acquisition agreement, the Aplana brand will be still owned by the Aplana Group.

Founded in 1993 by Igor Borovikov, Softline helps customers achieve digital transformation and protect their business with cybersecurity technologies. Its services include end-to-end technology solutions, public and private clouds, software and hardware provisioning, and a broad array of associated services. Softline also helps Yukon Advanced Optics integrate communications systems for its offices around the world.

The transaction was made within the framework of the Softline Group’s global strategy providing for advanced growth of its most promising business lines, including mergers and acquisitions. Approximately 200 employees will join Softline’s team in three Russian development centers (Moscow, Voronezh, and Ufa) with expertise in a number of key verticals, such as finance, automotive business, and logistics, etc. For Softline, the acquisition of the new asset marks the creation of a major international player based on the holding company with leading competencies in custom development. These competencies will help more than 60 thousand customers in 50 countries to adequately meet the challenges of digital transformation.

‘The need for large customers to create custom software solutions and the desire to quickly implement their own innovations within these solutions has led to rapid growth in the custom development segment around the world. This is a long-term trend for which Softline is fully prepared. After the transaction, the number of Softline’s employees engaged in custom development will total 500, which may double within one or two years. This will promote scaling of our business in custom development and the export of Russian competencies and technologies all over the world,’ says Sergey Chernovolenko, Global CEO of the Softline Group.

‘We are pleased to invite one of the strongest teams with proven expertise in a number of promising verticals and significant experience in various technology stacks (including Microsoft) to the Softline family. In our business, staff competence is a core value. All this allows us to hope for the synergy of a united team and to fulfill a wide range of our customer needs with its help,’ concludes Ivan Kireev, Softline’s Vice President of Software Development.

Softline has partnerships with more than 3000 software and hardware manufacturers and has the highest partner status with all our key partners. Softline serves over 60 000 Enterprise and SMB clients, both from the private and public sectors. Over 1500 account managers, 1000 solution sales and technical presale professionals, and 1000 engineers and technical specialists help our customers navigate through the ever-changing complex IT environment.

In 2019, Softline’s turnover exceeded $1.54 Billion with sales growth of 13.2% in the Group of Companies. Softline has offices in 50 countries and 95 cities worldwide. With more than 25 years of distinguished history, we have managed to grow rapidly while consolidating technology expertise and a business model encompassing all emerging markets.