Tuesday 12^th February 2008, Maxima were presented with the prestigious QAD Award - "Partner of the Year" (for financial year ending 31^st January 2008) by Pam Lopker, President and Founder of QAD Inc. at QAD's Annual Sales Conference in Long Beach, California.

The award reflected a record year for Maxima with regards to license revenue since the relationship began with QAD through Minerva eighteen years ago.

 

 

 

The prize was received by Charles Harrigan - Divisional Director, Maxima Information Group during a formal dinner on board the Queen Mary; he said, "being recognised in front of the entire QAD Executive, sales force and other channel partners is particularly rewarding in itself, however I would like to acknowledge our dedicated QAD team at Maxima, from the Support Desk through Development to Technical and Consulting Specialists, not forgetting Admin, without whom none of it would be possible.   Furthermore I would like to thank our customers who continually show faith in us by investing more and more of their IT budget with Maxima.   Finally, I am looking forward to an even more rewarding twelve months to come with the launch of QAD Enterprise Applications 2008 and our augmented capability in the areas of Infrastructure, Applications Deployment and Managed Services".

Wednesday 13^th February 2008
Maxima presented with award for "Emerging Partner of the Year".     

 

 

Maxima plc is recognized at the Oracle Partner Network Annual Award ceremony in London for its outstanding performance and contribution to Oracle.  The prize was awarded to the specialist Business Intellligence divsion of Maxima, based on the work carried out by Eclectic, a recent acquisition to the Maxima group.

The prize was received by Mark Simpson, Business Development Manager for Maxima plc; "Maxima are delighted to be acknowledged by Oracle for our achievements in the UK.  This award recognises the effort and contribution we have made to Oracle with our outstanding performance, specifically with the delivery of Oracle Business Intelligence solutions.  This puts Maxima in the top echelon of Oracle partners in the UK and we will look to build on this success through 2008."

QAD, Inc., a leading provider of enterprise software and services for global manufacturers, today announced that Consumer Goods Technology magazine has selected QAD as the top provider for customer experience in the Enterprise Resource Planning section of the magazine's annual Reader's Choice Awards, published in the January 2008 issue. The annual Reader's Choice Awards honor winners across twelve different categories focused on service and solutions for consumer goods companies.

Consumer products manufacturers worldwide rely on QAD as a trusted partner to analyze, plan and manage every aspect of their enterprise at every stage in the manufacturing process. QAD develops and delivers enterprise solutions designed to solve the immediate challenges consumer products manufacturers face today while laying the groundwork for future success and lasting bottom-line results.

"We are pleased to be included in this year's Reader's Choice Awards," said Phil Friedman, vice president, consumer products, QAD. "Consumer products manufacturers have to deal with many different layers of suppliers, distributors and channels in taking their product to market these days. QAD is committed to supporting these manufacturers in achieving their goals in brand development, demand management, and new product introduction."

QAD Enterprise Applications are designed to streamline the management of manufacturing operations, supply chains, financials, customers, technology and business performances all in one suite. Built on a deep, foundational understanding of manufacturing and designed for maximum flexibility anywhere in the world, QAD Enterprise Applications are available in 27 languages and can handle multiple currencies. For both single-site manufacturers with customers and suppliers in many locations around the world, and global enterprises with factories and plants in dozens of countries, QAD can provide the solutions and support to operate multi-national businesses efficiently and profitably.

Tuesday 5 February 2008
Maxima Holdings plc (‘Maxima' or the ‘Company')

Maxima Holdings plc (AIM:MXM), the acquisitive IT solutions and managed services group, is pleased to announce its unaudited interim results for the six months ended 30 November 2007.

Financial Highlights:

• Revenue up 62% to £21.1 million (H1 2007: £13.0 million)
• Recurring revenues represent 56% of total revenues
• Operating profit* up 74% to £4.0million (H1 2007 £2.3million)
• Profit before tax up 43% to £2.0 million (H1 2007 £1.4 million)
• Adjusted*, fully diluted earnings per share up 16% to 10.2p (H1 2007: 8.8p)
• Dividend of 2.0p per share (H1 2007: 1.8p) - in line with progressive dividend policy

*pre-amortisation of intangibles, share based payments and exceptional charges

Operational Highlights:

• Appointment of Chief Operations Officer, Boris Huard
• 35 new clients won during the period, across all business areas
• Good progress on our Microsoft Dynamics AX solution for the construction and facilities management sector with 8 sales to date
• Acquisition in July 2007 of Centric Networks Ltd, Infrastructure Managed Services provider for £6.4million (gross maximum)

Commenting on the results, Mike Brooke, Chairman, said: "The business has always exhibited seasonality, resulting in a stronger second half. This trend continues and our second half will also benefit from contributions from the acquisitions made in July and December 2007. As announced in the trading update issued on 28 January 2008, we have experienced an increased level of caution in our markets, however we continue to win new business across the group. We are confident that the diversity and spread of our offerings and client base, together with our strong operational management and sales organisation, position us well. Our high level of cash conversion and recurring revenues also give us the robust financial foundations from which to achieve our objectives for the future."

Click Here to download the Interim Results

Enquiries:

Maxima
Kelvin Harrison, Chief Executive - 01242 211211
Linda Andrews, Group Finance Director - 0141 880 1000

Cenkos Securities plc
Stephen Keys - 020 7397 8900

Smithfield
Tania Wild/Reg Hoare - 020 7360 4900

Maxima CEO, Kelvin Harrison, has has been shortlisted for ‘Entrepreneur of the Year Award' which is one of the ten categories being recognised at the Quoted Company Awards 2008 sponsored by Grant Thornton. The ceremony will be taking place on 30^th January 2008 at Grosvenor House. 

The Quoted Company Awards 2008 recognises the achievements of quoted companies listed below the FTSE 350. They take a fresh and innovative look at the quoted company market and reward the outstanding contributions of individuals active in public companies.

The 'Entrepreneur of the Year Award' will seek to recognise the entrepreneur at the helm of a young growing company whose flair, professionalism, dedication and opportunism has radically improved the trading prospects and the status of their company. Financial measures will be examined as well as various corporate deals, contracts, product development and product positioning. This award will focus on leaders who are founding shareholders or who hold significant stakes.

Since floating on AIM in November 2004, Maxima has trebled in size through strong organic growth and a series of carefully selected and well integrated acquisitions.

Maxima now has a complete offering of applications and infrastructure software solutions and managed services addressing the needs of mid-market customers in the UK and Ireland. These solutions and managed services are based upon technologies and products from world-class vendors including Microsoft, Oracle, SAP, IBM, Citrix and Cisco, overlaid with proprietary templates, tools and processes developed by Maxima. 

Maxima has a client base across the UK, Ireland & North America, with over 1000 clients, across more than 2000 sites, who consider Maxima as their trusted IT partner. Major clients include: Orange, J Murphy and Sons Limited, Boots & Mars.

07 January 2008

Maxima Holdings plc ("Maxima" or the "Company")

Maxima Holdings plc, (AIM: MXM), the integrated IT solutions and managed services company, today confirms it has completed the acquisition of the trade and assets of Eclectic Group Limited, a subsidiary of Glen Group plc (AIM: GLN), which was announced on 19 December 2007.

The acquisition is in line with Maxima's consolidation strategy within the fragmented IT services sector and is anticipated to be earnings enhancing in the year ending 31 May 2009.

For further information, please contact:

Maxima
Kelvin Harrison, Chief Executive - 01242 211211
Linda Andrews, Group Finance Director - 0141 880 1000

Smithfield
Tania Wild / Reg Hoare - 020 7360 4900

Friday 23rd November 2007, Maxima was presented with the Unichem Pharmacy Award - 2007 Shortline Supplier of the Year by Paul Forster-Jones, Managing Director, Cordia Healthcare at the prestigious annual dinner held this year at The Intercontinental Hyde Park, London.

Maxima was nominated by Paul Forster-Jones for their sterling work installing, implementing and validating a QAD Enterprise Applications 2007 compliant ERP solution at Cordia Healthcare, on budget and on-time for what was a very tight schedule. 

The prize was received by Kelvin Harrison, Chief Executive, Maxima Holdings PLC; he said, "Being acknowledged like this by a demanding organisation such as Cordia, as part of Alliance Boots PLC is very big feather in our cap.   This is exactly the type of service Maxima strives to offer right across the Group regardless of the solution or technical platform.  The award gives us confidence to continue to invest in our people, resulting in a world-class service for our customers"

Charles Harrigan, Sales Director, Maxima Information Group Ltd said, "The Cordia contract was won by the Maxima QAD Division in a extremely competitive environment; however it was our ability to demonstrate and reference the skillsets and experience necessary to deliver a fully compliant and validated solution, encompassing the FDA's CFR21Part11 Electronic Signatures requirement".

Tuesday, 6^th November 2007, Maxima were presented with the QAD Award - 2007 Market Share Builder of the Year by Jean-Claude Walravens, Vice-President EMEA, QAD at the QAD Alliance Conference in Vienna.

The prize was received by Charles Harrigan, Sales Director, Maxima Information Group Ltd; he said, "we are delighted to be acknowledged and honoured once again by QAD for our commitment and drive in promulgating QAD Applications in the UK and Ireland manufacturing and distribution sectors. An intrinsic component of our success is in our ability to present value justification to our customers and consistently deliver on our promise.  QAD and our customers' sales relationships are based (and sustained) on their understanding of the value that Maxima delivers, whether it be a point solution or a fully managed service."

 

06 November 2007

Maxima have been awarded Citrix Gold Partner Status in the UK

Maxima (AIM:MXM.L), the IT solutions and managed service company, is pleased to announce that they have been awarded Citrix Gold Partner Status for the UK.

After a lengthy accreditation process demonstrating dedication to their partnership with Citrix, the Maxima team achieved the necessary qualifications to meet the high technical standard and commercial goals set by Citrix.

Fraser Fisher, of Maxima commented "I am delighted that we have achieved Gold Solution Advisor status in the UK. This demonstrates our commitment and recognises our expertise and value as a Citrix solutions partner, complementing the Citrix Platinum partner status we hold in Ireland."

Maxima is now ranked as one of the most qualified Citrix partners in the UK with many clients choosing them to provide a whole solution in both core applications and infrastructure platforms.

Maxima excels in the arena of Managed Services, offering design, implementation and maintenance of complex infrastructure systems, including live monitoring of critical servers, firewalls, hosting, user groups and applications, ensuring downtime is minimized for customers. All support is in-house and managed by a highly skilled, efficient and qualified technical helpdesk.

Gold Partner status with Citrix is based on a combination of completing sales and technical certifications, sales volume, successful customer deployments and a close working relationship with the local Citrix team

About Citrix
Citrix Systems, Inc. (Nasdaq:CTXS) is the global leader and the most trusted name in application delivery infrastructure. More than 180,000 organisations worldwide rely on Citrix to deliver any application to users anywhere with the best performance, highest security and lowest cost. Citrix has approximately 6,200 channel and alliance partners in more than 100 countries.

19 October 2007

Maxima is today hosting a site visit for investors and analysts at their offices in Cheltenham. Case studies will be presented of the activities in both the Maxima Solutions and the Managed Services divisions, as well as an illustration of Maxima's approach to the integration of acquisitions. No material new information will be disclosed in the presentations. At the same time, Maxima today announces the following update on current trading:

Maxima is pleased to report that since the start of its financial year on 1 June 2007 it has won a total of 39 new clients broadly spread across the different business areas. Cross-selling is steadily increasing as the acquisitions become fully integrated within Maxima. Further to this, significant additional business and substantial numbers of managed service and support contracts have been renewed from Maxima's existing client base.  This includes the sale of four of its new IT solutions for the construction sector based upon Microsoft Dynamics AX which was announced in April this year.

The Company is also pleased to announce the successful completion of two important projects.  Firstly, the go-live after a four month accelerated implementation and full validation of the manufacturing solution for a leading pharmaceutical company, based upon QAD applications software.  Secondly, the successful upgrade to Oracle R12 of the systems of a major insurance company, one of the first such upgrades to be carried out in the UK.

Overall trading remains in line with expectations.

Kelvin Harrison, Maxima's Chief Executive said: "It has been a good start to the year for Maxima as we continue to extend our existing client relationships and grow the pool of new customers in our core sectors.  We are now able to offer our clients full end-to-end applications and infrastructure software solutions and managed services which we continue to develop. We will report our interim results for the six months ending 30 November 2007 in early February 2008."

For further information please contact:

Maxima
Kelvin Harrison, Chief Executive - 01242 211211
Linda Andrews, Group Finance Director - 0141 880 1000

Cenkos - Nominated Advisor to the Company                 
Stephen Keys - 020 7397 8900

Smithfield
Tania Wild / Reg Hoare - 020 7360 4900

Maxima Holdings plc (AIM:MXM), the IT Solutions and Managed Service Company, is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a £3.5 million, three year managed services contract from Towergate Partnership Ltd. The contract is to provide Incident, Infrastructure and Problem Management services to over 100 offices and 3,500 staff within Towergate, the largest independently owned insurance organisation in Europe. Towergate became a client of Maxima following the acquisition of Centric Networks in July 2007.

The agreement expands on the scope of existing Service Desk, Server Support and Datacentre provision contract. Maxima have also been awarded an additional contract to provide disaster recovery services for Towergate.  

Kelvin Harrison, Chief Executive of Maxima said: "We are delighted to have extended the contract with Towergate, proving the value in our managed service offering, as well further strengthening the relationship between our two businesses." 

Mike Newman, Towergate's IT Director added: "It is an absolute must-have for insurance brokers to work with a first rate IT provider. I am very pleased with the service we have already received from Maxima. Their proven experience and capabilities with both Microsoft and Citrix made the decision to extend the contract easy for us and I look forward to our continued working relationship."

About Towergate Partnership Ltd

Towergate Partnership is Europe's largest independently owned insurance organisation controlling more than £1.5bn of gross written premium (latest accounts).

Towergate was established in 1997 to provide insurance in niche markets ranging from holiday homes to cherished cars. Having expanded and broadened their products range to over 200 - the widest range of specialist and traditional products in the UK market.

Towergate is now Europe's largest independently owned insurance intermediary.  With over 3500 committed staff operating out of 100 UK offices. Towergate's reputation for innovation, progression and dynamism is backed up by recognition from the Sunday Times as a Profit Track 100 company.

Maxima and Application Lynx have just completed a successful Simply HR Implementation for a major UK Insurance company. The implementation went live successfully on Monday 1^st October.

The timescales for this implementation have made this the fastest Simply HR Implementation that either Maxima or Application Lynx have worked on in partnership. To ensure a successful "go-live" required this successful partnership working in an agile way to meet the deliverables.

Deploying on a Windows platform required working in close partnership with both the client and Oracle.

Maxima feel that adopting R12 has allowed the implementation to meet the very aggressive timescales.

14 August 2007

Maxima Holdings plc ("Maxima" or the "Company")

Maxima Holdings plc, (AIM: MXM.L) the AIM listed provider of IT solutions and managed services, today announces its preliminary results for the year to 31 May 2007 which have come in slightly ahead of market expectations.

Financial Highlights

• Revenues up 66% to £31.8m (2006: £19.1m)
• Recurring revenues remain at 56% of turnover
• Operating profit* up 85% to £6.3m (2006: £3.4m), an operating margin of 19.7% (2006: 17.5%)
• Profit before tax* up 76% to £5.8m (2006: £3.3m)
• Statutory profit before tax up 62% to £4.2m (2006: £2.6m)
• Net debt at 31 May 2007 of £6.6m (2006: £3.1m), after net cash outflows on acquisitions of £15.2m. A placing of shares in May 2007 raised £11.5m net.
• Adjusted earnings per share* up 46% to 25.9p (2006: 17.8p)
• Final dividend up 36% to 3.4p (2006: 2.5p) per share proposed, making a total dividend of 5.2p for year (2006: 4.0p)

* before exceptional items, amortisation of intangibles and share based payments

Operational Highlights

• Four acquisitions made and successfully integrated
• Benefits of scale and cross selling now becoming evident
• Investment in developing a Microsoft Dynamics AX based solution for the construction sector
• Commencement of fully staffed 24x7 support and managed service operations
• Market conditions favourable and organic growth increasing

Chief Executive, Kelvin Harrison commented "Maxima has had an excellent year during which our corebusinesses have performed well whilst we made four further acquisitions. We now have a complete offering of application and infrastructure software solutions and managed services and provide our clients with a onestop - shop for all their IT needs.

The new financial year has got off to a good start with some important contract renewals and key new business wins including our first major Microsoft Dynamics AX project, as well as the acquisition of Centric Networks Ltd. Maxima is in an exciting phase of its development as we now build greater scale within our chosen markets."

Click here for full press release PDF - 90Kb

For further information please contact:

Maxima
Kelvin Harrison, Chief Executive Tel: 01242 211211
Linda Andrews, Group Finance Director Tel: 0141 880 1000

Cenkos
Stephen Keys Tel: 020 7397 8926

Smithfield
Tania Wild / Reg Hoare Tel: 020 7360 4900

August 7th 2007

QAD Inc. (NASDAQ: QADI), a leading provider of enterprise applications and services for global manufacturers, provides superior Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) per functionality, according to "The Cost of ERP Functionality," a recent study published by Aberdeen Group.

Aberdeen surveyed more than 1,680 companies of all sizes to benchmark ERP in Manufacturing, measuring both depth and breadth of functionality, as well as the cost of ERP in terms of software, services, and maintenance. QAD demonstrated superior TCO per functionality over most all other vendors, owning in part to its ease of use and simplified design.

"We continue to be committed to serving the needs of manufacturing companies around the world by developing and delivering enterprise software that is easy to install, implement, and use for better business performance," said Pamela Lopker, chairman and president of QAD. "This most recent report from Aberdeen validates our strategy to offer deep industry functionality, while remaining focused on the needs of manufacturers."

"In this study, we found that it is important for users to consider various factors when making buying decisions for an ERP system including, but not limited to the price of functionality deployed," said Cindy Jutras, Vice President & Group Director, Aberdeen Group. "QAD continues to deliver at a strong price point in tandem with its ease of use as evidenced by its low service to software cost ratio."

Earlier this year, QAD released QAD Enterprise Applications 2007, a new version of its flagship enterprise software solution. QAD 2007 is a complete suite to address the requirements of global enterprises. Employing Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) capabilities QAD 2007 includes enhanced functionality that enables global manufacturers to better manage supply and demand chains, enterprise assets, transportation and logistics, while streamlining communication and improving manufacturing productivity.

To learn more and access a copy of the Aberdeen report visit www.qad.com

26th July 2007

Maxima (AIM:MXM.L), the IT solutions and managed service company, is pleased to announce that its recently acquired subsidiary, 3net Ltd (3net) has secured a 3-year contract renewal from the leading City law Firm Baker & McKenzie LLP.  The contract covers support of Baker & McKenzie's data network and provision of proactive network consultancy to ensure that its infrastructure keeps abreast of the aggressive growth aspirations of the London practice.

Mark Just, IT Infrastructure Services Manager at Baker & McKenzie, explains "we've had a good working relationship with 3net for over 4 years now and during that time they've helped us evolve our network to one that is inherently robust and reliable." 

Mark Just elaborates, "3net's consultants have always been flexible and totally committed to our relationship.  This means that we have been able to extract the maximum value from our investment.  Above all else, this is why we are delighted to have negotiated another 3-year contract with them."

About Baker & McKenzie

Baker & McKenzie, London is the largest office of one of the world's leading and most internationally diverse law firms giving clients a unique global perspective. Baker & McKenzie plays a key role in the Firm's extensive European network, linking with offices spanning six continents to provide clients with a peerless combination of local and global expertise.

20th July 2007

Centric Networks Limited has been acquired by Maxima Holdings Plc. Centric provides managed services for infrastructure software to a broad range of clients in the mid-market. 

Based near Stansted with 41 employees, Centric will be immediately integrated with Maxima's existing infrastructure managed service business.  The management team will remain with the business as part of the Maxima group.

Centric's skills lie in operating systems, networking, security and remote access.  These skills are packaged into a managed service conforming with ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) guidelines.  The service generally embraces remote monitoring, for which a range of tools have been developed, and provision of helpdesk services. Centric frequently manages the hosting and maintenance of client's systems in third party datacentres.  Centric is a Cisco Premier partner, a Citrix Silver partner, a Checkpoint Silver partner and a Microsoft Certified partner.

Commenting on the acquisition, Kelvin Harrison, Chief Executive said:

"I am delighted to welcome the Centric Networks team into the Maxima Group.  This transaction builds upon our existing infrastructure software skills which have been developed since the acquisition of Intertech in November 2006 and 3net in May 2007.  It greatly reinforces Maxima's total of IT solutions and managed services offering to the mid-market."

Fraser Fisher, Managing Director of Centric, added:

"Joining Maxima provides us with the ideal opportunity to increase the range of skills that we can offer to our clients and to continue our strong growth record."

To find out more about Centric Networks Limited please visit http://www.centricnetworks.net/

Johnson & Johnson Goes to Great Heights for CARE International

Since 2004, the Johnson & Johnson Information Technology team has lead a trek across the three highest mountains in Scotland, England and Wales in less than 24 hours. The objective: to raise money in support of CARE International - one of the world's top development agencies, which works to help more than 48 million poor and marginalized people, each year, to find a way out of poverty.

Whether working in disaster zones to ease suffering or liaising with local governments and businesses to break the cycle of poverty, CARE International is present in over 70 countries, encouraging prosperity with jobs, savings projects, sanitation, construction and health care.

This year, the Johnson & Johnson team decided to up their investment and set out on a more rigorous journey to benefit this cause. On 16th June, Richard Lee, Jonny Harris, Steve Calderon, Mark Bangerter, and Carl Bedson, with the support of Jag Bhachu embarked upon the 24 Peaks Challenge - climbing the 24 highest peaks in the Lakes District in 24 hours!

The Challenge calls for each team to walk over 50KM and climb over 4000M of some of the toughest terrain in the UK, including Helvellyn, Great Dodd and Scafell Pike.

Despite periods of torrential rain, a knee-injury, which caused the withdrawal of veteran team member, Steve Calderon and a four-hour struggle to overtake a tough competitor, Team COMPEED did finish in 1st place. With a twohour lead over second place and five-hour lead over third, CARE International was able to confirm that the team achieved the fastest time for the 24 peaks in the 10 years the event has been run!!

On behalf of everyone, we would like to thank Maxima for their generous contribution to this year's effort.

Chris Wong
Johnson & Johnson IT Manager

24 May 2007

Maxima Holdings plc ("Maxima" or the "Company")

Completion of Acquisition of 3net Limited ("3net")

Maxima Holdings plc, (AIM: MXM), the acquisitive IT solutions and managed services company, is pleased to announce that the acquisition of 3net Limited, conditionally announced on 1 May 2007 successfully completed today. 

Click here for full press release PDF - 97Kb

QAD Drives Innovation in the Manufacturing Market, Helps Customers Achieve Lean Manufacturing Through Flexibility of Progress Application

Infrastructure Technologies QAD Inc. (NASDAQ:QADI), a global provider of enterprise software applications and services, and Progress Software Corporation (NASDAQ:PRGS), a provider of leading application infrastructure software to develop, deploy, integrate and manage business applications, today jointly announced they have expanded their longstanding Technology Alliance to allow QAD to globally license and distribute a wide range of application infrastructure products from Progress Software. QAD has been an Application Partner(1) of Progress Software for more than 20 years. Under the terms of the expanded agreement, QAD and Progress may extend their joint offering beyond the Progress(R) OpenEdge(R) application platform to include Progress Sonic ESB(R) (Enterprise Service Bus), Progress Actional(R) for SOA management, the Progress EasyAsk(R) Natural Language and Query product, and other best-in-class technologies that deliver the reliability, high service levels and enterprise-wide visibility that a lean manufacturing environment demands. With access to a broader portfolio of Progress technologies, QAD is on course to deliver on its vision of shaping the "Perfect Lean Market" for manufacturing by helping their customers leverage their existing IT investment. QAD and Progress customers alike stand to benefit from this alliance as the two companies continue to focus on their respective core competencies, share market intelligence and product development plans, and ensure that industry-leading technology will be available when needed. For example, Progress' Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) capabilities bring enhanced functionality into QAD Enterprise Applications. Taken together, this enables global manufacturers to better manage supply and demand chains, enterprise assets, transportation and logistics, while streamlining communication and improving manufacturing productivity. "In today's rapidly evolving business marketplace, customers seek efficiency and competitive advantage. It is vital that QAD and its key technology providers work closely to create better, more robust and flexible business solutions," said Pam Lopker, president of QAD. "We view Progress as an important component in our aggressive R&D strategy, and we expect customers will benefit from the investments both our companies are making to deliver on our vision of 'The Perfect Lean Market.'" QAD embeds Progress' technology in its core product offering, QAD Enterprise Applications, which are in use at more than 5,500 customer sites in over 90 countries. "QAD has carved out a significant market-leading position with manufacturing companies around the world with their powerful and flexible enterprise software solutions. QAD, and their customers, will benefit from the high reliability, low administrative overhead and faster application development provided by the Progress best-in-class technologies," said Dave Ireland, president of the OpenEdge Division for Progress Software. "With QAD's deep-rooted industry knowledge and our open technologies, QAD's customers will gain a significant market advantage." About QAD QAD is a leading provider of enterprise applications for global manufacturing companies. QAD applications provide critical functionality for managing manufacturing resources and operations within and beyond the enterprise, enabling global manufacturers to collaborate with their customers, suppliers and partners to make and deliver the right product, at the right cost and at the right time. Manufacturers of automotive, consumer products, electronics, food and beverage, industrial and life science products use QAD applications at approximately 5,800 licensed sites in more than 90 countries and in as many as 27 languages. For more information about QAD, telephone +1-805-684-6614, or visit the QAD Web site at: www.qad.com. "QAD" is a registered trademark of QAD Inc. All other products or Company names herein may be trademarks of their respective owners. About Progress Software Corporation Progress Software Corporation (NASDAQ:PRGS) provides application infrastructure software for the development, deployment, integration and management of business applications. Our goal is to maximize the benefits of information technology while minimizing its complexity and total cost of ownership. Progress can be reached at www.progress.com or +1-781-280-4000. Progress, Sonic ESB, OpenEdge, EasyAsk, Actional and Progress OpenEdge are trademarks or registered trademarks of Progress Software Corporation or one of its affiliates or subsidiaries in the U.S. and other countries. Any other trademarks or service marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners.

 

16 April 2007

Maxima Holdings Plc ("Maxima" or "the Company)

Maxima Holdings Plc (AIM:MXM), the acquisitive AIM listed IT systems integrator and managed services provider, today announces that it has signed an agreement with Microsoft to become a partner for Microsoft Dynamics AX (formerly Microsoft Axapta).

The agreement builds upon its existing partnership agreement for Microsoft Dynamics CRM, its recent acquisition of leading Microsoft CRM partner, SevenThree Limited, as well its status as a Microsoft Gold Certified Partner.

Microsoft will be working closely with Maxima in this new initiative to build a substantial business around Microsoft Dynamics AX - focusing initially on the Construction Industry.

Maxima has already enjoyed considerable success in this industry with its existing construction accounting and service management solution, Intellect, used by over 300 customers in the UK. Maxima will be extending the capabilities of Microsoft Dynamics AX with specific industry modules for the Construction Industry.

"Today's customers demand complete solutions that meet their organisation's unique needs," said Paul White, UK General Manager for Microsoft Business Solutions. "We're addressing that demand by combining vertical applications developed by companies such as Maxima with the core functionality and deep customisation options offered in Microsoft Dynamics AX."

Paul White continues, "Expanding the industry-specific functionality of all our business management products is key element of our competitive sales strategy worldwide. As one of the first partners in the UK to take this approach with Microsoft Dynamics AX, we will be supporting Maxima every step of the way."

Kelvin Harrison, Maxima's CEO said, "We are delighted to have signed this agreement with Microsoft. Microsoft Dynamics AX will complement our current solution offering and enable us to offer both existing customers and new prospects a complete business management solution. Its also further strengthens our Microsoft relationship."

For further information, please contact:

Maxima

Kelvin Harrison, Chief Executive                                01242 211 211
Linda Andrews, Group Finance Director                     0141  880 1000

Cenkos
Stephen Keys/Max Hartley                                       020 7397 8900

Smithfield
Reg Hoare/Sam Botterill                                           020 7903 4900

 

SevenThree, the UK's leading supplier of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software and services, has been acquired by Maxima Holdings Plc. The acquisition has a strong strategic fit with Maxima's existing solutions business and existing Microsoft partnership.

SevenThree is primarily focused on the Construction and Building Products sector.  Maxima believes that there is considerable opportunity for CRM within its existing installed base of over 300 construction clients, as well as its wider base of manufacturing, public sector and financial services clients.  The acquisition further enhances Maximas ability to deliver to its client's solutions and services from the worlds leading vendors.

Based in Coventry, SevenThree with over 50 customers, distributes and implements Microsoft Dynamics CRM and Pivotal CRM in the UK and Ireland. Clients include Balfour Beatty Rail, Dimplex, Hanson, Sisk, Amey and Kingspan.

SevenThree is Microsoft's only recommended partner for Microsoft CRM in the Construction Industry.  This is based upon its commitment and development of a pre-configured solution specifically for the vertical.  The Construction Industry is the UK's largest industry sector, contributing 8% to GDP. 

Kelvin Harrison, Maxima's Chief Executive said: "I am delighted to welcome the SevenThree team into the Maxima Group.  We are encountering strong demand for Microsoft CRM software solutions across all the markets in which we operate.  SevenThree enhances our capabilities and perfectly complements our existing construction industry solutions, which are strongly aligned with Microsoft."

Ron Parkin, Managing Director of SevenThree added: "Being part of Maxima will enable us to accelerate our growth as well as help us bid for much larger projects.  There is a great cultural fit between the two organisations and everyone in SevenThree is excited about the opportunities this presents."

To find out more about SevenThree please visit http://www.73.co.uk/

Maxima Holdings plc, the IT solutions and managed services group, announces an update on trading for the six months ended 30 November 2006. The business continues to successfully pursue its acquisitive and organic growth strategy, and will report expected revenues and profits significantly up year on year.

Maxima operates through two trading businesses, Maxima Solutions and Maxima Managed Services. A strong characteristic of both businesses continues to be their success at long-term customer relationships, leading to high levels of recurring revenues, with good operating profit margins. It is also pleasing to see the benefits of strong cooperation between the operating units both in sales and delivery.

Maxima Solutions has grown organically, winning eight new clients during the period, and its business has been strengthened with the acquisition of Cognition Solutions Ltd in October 2006. Cognition has a customer base of almost 300 organisations.

Maxima Managed Services has also grown organically, winning eight new clients during the period, and acquired IIL (Intertech Solutions Ireland) Ltd in November 2006. Intertech has a customer base of some 100 organisations with whom it has managed support service agreements.

Maxima will announce its interim results on 27 February 2007, together with details of the interim dividend payment. The results will be reported under IFRS for the first time. In a separate statement, due to be released later this month, the impact of IFRS will be explained along with a historical half-year and full-year restatement of results for comparison purposes.

Kelvin Harrison, Maxima's Chief Executive said:

"Maxima has more than doubled in size since floating on AIM two years ago. In 2007 we will continue to grow the business both organically and by acquisition. Major new product releases from Microsoft, such as the Vista operating system, Dynamics, Office 2007 and Sharepoint 2007 strongly position the Group for organic growth. In addition, our pipeline of acquisition opportunities continues to be strong and we expect to make further announcements in due course."

Maxima
Kelvin Harrison, Chief Executive                              01242 211 211
Linda Andrews, Group Finance Director                   0141 880 1000

Seymour Pierce
Mark Percy/John Depasquale                                 0207 107 8000

Smithfield
Sara Musgrave/Tania Wild                                      020 7360 4900

Maxima (AIM:MXM.L), the IT solutions and managed services company, is pleased to announce that they have been nominated for this year's Oracle UK Partner Awards in the the category equivalent to "Best Newcomer".   

 

 

This nomination recognises the commitment Maxima have shown towards their Oracle business, their business plans and strategies.

Tim Cromarty, Maxima Operations Director, said "I am delighted that our efforts in the Oracle world are being recognised." 

Maxima is one of four nominees in this category and will attend a gala dinner in February 2007 for the awards ceremony.

Maxima (AIM: MXM.L), the IT solutions and managed services company, is pleased to announce that its recently acquired subsidiary, IIL (Intertech Solutions Ireland) Ltd ("Intertech") has been awarded a contract worth £2.9 million over a four year period for the provision and operation of a large Citrix based IT infrastructure platform.

The contract is for the set up and application management of a global work-share facility on behalf of a multinational petrochemical corporation. The systems will be hosted within a major European data centre. The facility will allow globally dispersed engineers working collaboratively on a major design project to access Intergraph's SmartPlant software via Citrix on a single instance of an Oracle database. The project is innovative in the bringing together of all elements of the latest Citrix Access solution, along with key Microsoft and Citrix third party utilities. The contract also includes the provision of a true 24x7 Managed Services facility for users based all over the world. This solves an age-old IT problem of bringing various databases together at the end of an engineering design project.

Kelvin Harrison, Maxima's Chief Executive said:

"This news confirms the benefit to Intertech of becoming part of the AIM-listed Maxima group, with its deep Oracle and Microsoft skills. Whilst the client saw greater security in dealing with the larger group, Maxima was also able to assist Intertech in the negotiation of improved contract terms. We are nowstrongly positioned to bid for other similar specialist projects in the future and this contract win helpsunderpin the existing expectations for the Company's 2007 financial year"

On the 13^th November 2006, Maxima were presented with QAD's Major Sales Contributor Award by Karl Lopker, QAD's CEO, at the QAD European User Conference in Prague. The prize was received by Kelvin Harrison, CEO, Maxima Holdings PLC.

 

 

 

Charles Harrigan, Maxima's QAD Divisional Director, said, "we are delighted to be acknowledged and honoured by QAD for our commitment and drive in promulgating QAD Applications in the UK and Ireland manufacturing and distribution sector. Maxima operates in a very challenging marketplace, with our efforts being compared to our colleagues in the more lucrative and buoyant economies. Our success is down to the quality of our people and the foresight and commitment of the board and shareholders."

 

Maxima (AIM:MXM.L), the IT solutions and managed services company, is pleased to announce the acquisition of IIL (Intertech Solutions Ireland) Limited ("Intertech") for a total consideration of €6.1million (£4.1million). Intertech provides IT infrastructure solutions and managed services based upon Citrix technologies. Intertech operates principally in Ireland where it is the largest reseller and only platinum partner of Citrix in the Republic of Ireland. The acquisition is in line with Maxima's consolidation strategy within the fragmented IT services market. The Board anticipates that it will be earnings enhancing in the current financial year ending 31 May 2007.

Intertech has a customer base of some 100 organisations with whom it has managed service support agreements, principally for the Citrix software solutions; these are in the three same market segments in which Maxima already operates, namely manufacturing, public sector and financial services. Citrix Systems Inc provides a suite of application delivery infrastructure software products which provide high speed, secure access to any application software from any location over any network. Citrix has numerous partners in Ireland and the UK, however Intertech has attained a pre-eminent position in the Irish market. It has been partner of the year for the last 3 years and in 2006 won 4 of Citrix's 6 partner awards for Ireland.

Click here for full press release PDF - 105Kb

Maxima (AIM: MXM.L), the IT solutions and managed services company, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Cognition Solutions Limited ("Cognition") for a total consideration of £7.4m. Cognition supplies ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) software solutions and services to the construction and facilities management sector, and will fit well with Maxima's existing solutions business. The acquisition is in line with Maxima's consolidation strategy within the fragmented IT services market. The Board anticipates that it will be earnings enhancing in the current financial year ending 31 May 2007.

Cognition has a customer base of almost 300 organisations which have bought solutions based on the "Intellect" product developed, owned and exclusively sold and supported by Cognition. These clients range from major organisations such as Alfred McAlpine Business Services Ltd, The Murphy Group and Accord plc to smaller construction companies and local authorities. 19 new customers have been won in the last year. Functionality has been continually enhanced to meet the evolving needs of the client base; for example, Intellect recently became the first product to be approved by HMRC for use with its new CIS (Construction Industry Scheme) reforms. Features include accounts, costing, payroll and management information systems, as well as specialist modules for plant hire, maintenance management, property management and mobile data solutions.

Click here for full press release PDF - 41Kb

The results and financial statements of Maxima Holdings plc, 2006, are available for download from our Investor Relations pages.

Click here to download the report

Maxima Holdings plc, (AIM:MXM), the acquisitive, AIM-listed IT systems integrator and managed services provider, today announces that it has signed an agreement with Microsoft to become a Microsoft Dynamics Partner.

The agreement means Microsoft will support Maxima in this new initiative to build a new business around the Microsoft Dynamics product suite – focusing initially on Microsoft Dynamics CRM 3.0.

The Directors believe that this new partnership with Microsoft will allow Maxima to generate new revenue opportunities, further increase its market share and build on the steady, profitable growth it has enjoyed in what is an increasingly competitive marketplace.

Kelvin Harrison, Maxima’s CEO said: "We are delighted to have signed this agreement with Microsoft. Microsoft Dynamics CRM will compliment our current solution offering and will enable us to offer both existing customers and new prospects a complete business management solution. It also further strengthens our relationship with Microsoft as we build upon the Gold Partner Status we achieved last year"

Maxima Holdings plc, (AIM:MXM), the acquisitive, AIM-listed IT systems integrator and managed services provider, today announces that it has signed an agreement with Microsoft to become a Microsoft Business Dynamics Partner.

The agreement means Microsoft will support Maxima in this new initiative to build a new business around the Business Dynamics product suite - focusing initially on Microsoft Dynamics CRM 3.0. Microsoft Dynamics CRM is a complete Customer Relationship Management solution that enables businesses to consolidate all of the customer information they collect in a single location so they can create a clear picture of their customers from first contact through purchase to post sales support.

The Directors believe that this new partnership with Microsoft will allow Maxima to generate new revenue opportunities, further increase its market share and build on the steady, profitable growth it has enjoyed in what is an increasingly competitive marketplace.

Kelvin Harrison, Maxima's CEO said: "We are delighted to have signed this agreement with Microsoft. Microsoft CRM will compliment our current solution offering and will enable us to offer both existing customers and new prospects a complete business management solution. It also further strengthens our relationship with Microsoft as we build upon the Gold Partner Status we achieved last year"

Maxima Holdings plc will publish its preliminary results for the year to 31 May 2006 on 17 August 2006.

For further information, please contact:

Maxima
Kelvin Harrison, Chief Executive              01242 211211
Linda Andrews, Group Finance Director   0141 880 1000

Seymour Pierce
Mark Percy/John Depasquale                  0207 107 8000

Smithfield
Sara Musgrave/Tania Wild                       020 7903 0676

Maxima Holdings plc (AIM:MXM), the acquisitive, AIM-listed IT systems integrator and managed services provider, announces an update on trading for the year to 31 May 2006.

The Board is pleased to confirm that it expects revenues and operating profit to be in line with market expectations and ahead of 2005 results.

In line with its strategy stated at the time of the IPO, Maxima has successfully completed four acquisitions during the financial year just ended. All acquisitions have been fully integrated and are performing well. Cost savings and positive synergies from cross-selling and cross-resourcing have been delivered on time and in line with expectations.

As a result of these acquisitions, Maxima has structured the Group to operate as two trading businesses, Maxima Solutions and Maxima Managed Services.

Maxima Solutions delivers and supports enterprise and document management software solutions based upon its own IPR and leading products from vendors such as SAP, QAD and Microsoft. 29 new clients have been won during the year and recurring revenues from the client base continue to be strong.

Maxima Managed Services has been formed by the merger of Hanston Technology Partners, acquired in September 2005 and QED Business Systems acquired in May 2006. Both businesses have secured substantial new orders from their existing client base since being acquired by Maxima, while Hanston has won an additional nine new customer accounts. Cash generation has been strong. There were net cash outflows of £12.1m on acquisitions. A placing of shares in September 2005 raised £4.8m net and at year end net debt was £3.1m.

Maxima will announce preliminary results for the full year, together with details of the proposed final dividend payment, on 17 August 2006.

Kelvin Harrison, Maxima's Chief Executive said:

"Flotation on AIM in November 2004 has enabled Maxima to successfully pursue its ambitions as a consolidator in the IT services sector. Since floating our headcount has more than doubled to over 200 and we are reaping the benefits of scale, which are showing through in increased operating margins. We continue to uncover a healthy supply of acquisition opportunities of IT service companies that fit our stated criteria and expect further announcements in the coming months."

For further information, please contact:

Maxima
Kelvin Harrison, Chief Executive              01242 211211
Linda Andrews, Group Finance Director   0141 880 1000

Seymour Pierce
Mark Percy/John Depasquale                  0207 107 8000

Smithfield
Sara Musgrave/Tania Wild                       020 7903 0676

 

Passengers Get New Way to Pay the Ferryman - Lisa Kelly, Computing 15 Jun 2006

Orkney Ferries has introduced a new ticketing system to improve efficiency and accept credit card payments. The company, which runs nine ferries in the Orkney Isles, carrying 300,000 passengers a year, has ditched on-board ticket printers for mobile devices.

 The Maxima ticketing system runs on handheld RW420 printers from Zebra Technologies capable of withstanding poor weather conditions on deck.

"Locals know the ferries accept only cash or cheques but tourists don’t, and we needed a system for the 21st century," said David Sawkins, ferry services manager at Orkney Ferries.

A trial tested Microsoft pocket PCs from Maxima using Bluetooth to connect with printers.

But connectivity problems occurred when ticket collectors were close to smaller vessels’ radars, so Bluetooth has been replaced with cables between collectors’ handhelds and printers.

"We needed a system to work fast enough for card transactions and the capacity with Bluetooth was not there," said Sawkins.

QAD, a provider of enterprise applications for global manufacturers, is now shipping its flagship ERP software with a Microsoft.net framework-based user interface, and will offer support for Microsoft SQL Server 2005 database technology in the near future. As a result of collaboration with Microsoft, current and future releases of the QAD software suite will utilize the Microsoft platform.

Customers can expect seamless operation across sites using a mix of QAD, Microsoft and other database and platform technologies.

Support for the Microsoft platform is one of a host of initiatives QAD announced at Explore 2006, QAD's annual user conference, to deliver on its commitment to simplifying enterprise technology for manufacturers. QAD claims that its services enhance manufacturers' insight into business operations, response to marketplace change, and collaboration with trading partners.

"In concert with Microsoft, we are paving the way for manufacturers to take advantage of advanced database reporting and business intelligence capabilities," commented Pamela Lopker, chairman and president of QAD. "Microsoft's technical applications stack, combined with the focus of QAD's product suites, is a winning combination for today's manufacturers."

Maxima (AIM: MXM.L), the IT systems integration and managed services company, is pleased to announce the acquisition of QED Business Systems Limited ("QED") for a maximum total consideration of £4.8m. QED is an IT services company providing managed services for critical mainframe and midrange computer systems and applications software. The acquisition is in line with Maxima's consolidation strategy within the fragmented IT services market, and is the fifth acquisition the Company has made since its IPO in November 2004. Due to the timing of the acquisition, it will have negligible impact on the current financial year ending 31 May 2006, however, the Board anticipates that it will be earnings enhancing in the next financial year ending 31 May 2007.

Click here for full press release PDF - 109Kb

Maxima Holdings plc , the acquisitive IT services company delivering enterprise solutions and managed services, today announces that it has won a contract worth up to £4m over a two year period to supply Oracle e-Business suite expertise to a major UK transport infrastructure business.

Maxima will support the client as it removes legacy systems and adds new functionality to its Oracle E business suite as this becomes its core business tool. Applications included are Human Resources, CRM, Supply Chain and Finance along with their processes, all working on one single computer system. Such functionality will improve the flow and control of enterprise data across the business, whilst also delivering new services to both internal and external users for quicker and more consistent decision- making. The client is an existing customer of Hanston, a business acquired by Maxima in September 2005. The agreeme nt demonstrates Maxima's ability to maintain and deepen relationships following its successful integration of the Hanston acquisition.

Kelvin Harrison, Maxima's Chief Executive said:

"I am delighted that Maxima has been successful in further developing client relationships since integrating the business of Hanston. The contract, which is currently one of the largest projects of its kind in the UK, underpins group forecasts for the current year and demonstrates Maxima's continued ability to provide a comprehensive managed service for the technically complex Oracle e-business suite."

Click here for full press release PDF - 250Kb 

Maxima Holdings plc ("Maxima") the acquisitive AIM-listed software and services consolidator, today announces the acquisition of the MFG/PRO business of Seabrook Research Ltd (“Seabrook”) for a consideration of up to €750,000. The acquisition is in line with Maxima’s stated consolidation strategy within the fragmented IT services market, and is the fourth acquisition the Company has made since its IPO in November 2004.

Seabrook, based in Cork, Ireland, is the Irish distributor of QAD’s enterprise software solution MFG/PRO. It has more than 20 clients in the industrial sector, with a strong focus on pharmaceuticals and food/beverages. The business will be integrated with Maxima’s existing subsidiary, Minerva Industrial Systems, which is the UK distributor for MFG/PRO. No staff will transfer under the agreement, however Sean O’Sullivan, Managing Director of Seabrook will continue to provide consultancy to Minerva. The business will operate from Minerva’s Cheltenham office.

Revenues of the business being transferred in the year to 31/1/6 were approximately €900,000, of which approximately 50% derived from recurring support contracts. Overall gross margin was greater than 50%. The acquisition will be settled by a total consideration of up to €750,000, payable in cash in three stages over 12 months, depending upon performance. The assets being purchased are goodwill and deferred revenues associated with Seabrook’s customer and distribution contracts. The Board anticipates that the acquisition will be earnings enhancing in the current financial year.

Kelvin Harrison, Maxima’s Chief Executive said: “I am delighted with this acquisition as it provides Maxima the opportunity to increase our presence in the Irish marketplace, where we already have more than 40 clients. Our priority is to provide first class service to Seabrook’s existing client base, however we are already identifying opportunities for new business in Ireland.”

Sean O’Sullivan, Seabrook’s Managing Director said: “I am happy to be merging Seabrook’s ERP business with Maxima. The two businesses already know each other well, and I am confident that our customers will be well served by Maxima’s skilled team of consultants, developers and support staff, who have an excellent reputation in our market.”

Maxima Holdings plc, the acquisitive AIM-listed IT software & services consolidator, today announces that Azur Group, its first acquisition on flotation, has attained Gold Certified status in the Microsoft Partner Program, with competencies in Microsoft Advanced Infrastructure Solutions and Networking Infrastructure Solutions. The Microsoft award is in recognition of Azur’s client-winning expertise and total impact in the technology marketplace.

The Microsoft Partner Program was launched in December 2003 and represents Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to the success of partners worldwide. The program offers a single, integrated partnering framework that recognizes partner expertise, rewards the total impact that partners have in the technology marketplace, and delivers more value to help partners’ businesses be more successful.

As a Gold Certified partner, Azur has demonstrated its capability with Microsoft technologies and proven its ability to effectively meet customers’ needs. Microsoft Gold Certified Partners receive a rich set of benefits, including access, training and support, giving them a competitive advantage in the marketplace.

The Directors believe that this partnership with Microsoft will allow Azur to further increase its market share and build on the steady, profitable growth it has enjoyed in what is an increasingly competitive marketplace.

Azur has been offering Microsoft infrastructure as an upgrade path to its clients operating on legacy technologies for several years. In particular, its document management solutions, in use with more than 300 clients in the UK and the USA are benefiting from the robust and open solution provided by the Microsoft platform and tight integration with other Microsoft Applications.

Kelvin Harrison, Maxima’s CEO said: "We are delighted to have attained Gold Certified status in the Microsoft Partner Program. The Program clearly endorses our capabilities in this arena and our commitment to delivering value to our customers. The benefits provided through our Gold Certified status will allow us to continue to enhance the offerings that we provide."

Allison Watson, Vice President of the Worldwide Partner Sales and Marketing Group at Microsoft Corporation in Redmond commented: "Today Microsoft recognizes Azur as a new Microsoft Gold Certified Partner for demonstrating its expertise in providing customer satisfaction with Microsoft products and technology."

Minerva Industrial Systems received the prestigious 'Direct Sales Award' for 2005 from David Ireland, President, Progress Software Inc., at Progress UK and Ireland Partner Conference Dinner, held at the De Vere Carden Park on Thursday 26th January 2006.

Minerva's Director Sales & Marketing, Charles Harrigan, said, "I am very proud to receive this award on behalf of everyone at Minerva. We have worked extremely hard the past couple of years to consolidate the relationship. Our partnership with Progress is fundamental to the growth of Minerva as a Systems Integrator utilising SONIC Enterprise Service Bus offering customers a true Services Oriented Architecture (SOA)".

Maxima, the AIM listed provider of software and IT solutions, today announces the acquisition of Hanston Technology Partners Limited ("Hanston") for a total consideration of £8.75m. The acquisition is in line with Maxima's stated consolidation strategy within the fragmented IT services market, and is the third acquisition the Company has made since its IPO in November 2004.

The Board anticipates that the acquisition will be earnings enhancing in the current financial year.

Hanston is a fast growing Oracle based managed services and consultancy business, which has demonstrated average organic growth of 50% per annum for the last four years. Headquartered in Reading, Hanston has 37 employees and a broad base of 40 clients in the public and private sectors including major transportation, central government, telecommunication and pharmaceutical organizations. The acquisition will boost Maxima's presence in these markets and allow the Company the opportunity to expand into the fast growing application management outsourcing market with cross-selling opportunities. Hanston will form the fourth business unit within Maxima.

Hanston had revenues of £3.5m in the year to 31 March 2005, 45% of which were application management contracts, which fits well with Maxima's business model of growing the business through a high proportion of recurring revenues. Operating profit was £0.7m and net assets were £0.5m, including £0.5m of cash.

Consideration for the acquisition will be £8.75m, comprising £8.25m in cash and £0.50m of Maxima ordinary shares ("Consideration Shares"). Funding for the purchase will come from bank debt and the net proceeds of a placing, fully underwritten by the Company's broker, Seymour Pierce.

The Company is also pleased to announce that to partially fund the acquisition of Hanston, Seymour Pierce, as agent for the Company, has conditionally placed 3,030,303 new ordinary shares of 1p each in the Company ( "New Ordinary Shares") at 165p per share to existing and new institutional shareholders. The New Ordinary Shares and the Consideration Shares will, upon issue, rank pari passu with the Company's existing issued ordinary shares of 1p each ("Ordinary Shares"), including the right to the dividend of 1.5p payable on 7 November 2005 to shareholders on the register on 28 October 2005. Application has been made for the New Ordinary Shares and the Consideration Shares to be admitted to trading on AIM, and dealings are expected to commence on Thursday 22 September 2005. The vendors of Hanston have agreed not to sell the Consideration Shares without permission of the Company's broker, Seymour Pierce, for at least 12 months from the date of completion of the acquisition.

Furthermore, to satisfy institutional demand, Seymour Pierce has conditionally placed on behalf of an existing shareholder of Maxima, 794,002 Ordinary Shares at 165p per share.

Kelvin Harrison, Maxima's Chief Executive said:

"I am delighted to announce the acquisition of Hanston, Maxima's third acquisition since floating on AIM in November 2004. Hanston is a high growth and high quality business with an impressive client list, which will strengthen our presence in the Oracle IT services market. We are confident that Hanston is an excellent fit within Maxima, and will enhance our opportunities for growing and developing the business."

Gary Hurlstone, Commercial Director of Hanston, said:

"Hanston has had a very successful five years. This deal now gives Hanston a tremendous opportunity to move to the next phase. As such, we are very pleased to be part of the Maxima Group."

For further information, please contact:

Maxima
Kelvin Harrison, Chief Executive 07801 380 616
Geoff Bicknell, Group Finance Director 07785 361 621

Seymour Pierce
Mark Percy/John Depasquale 0207 107 8000

Smithfield
Sara Musgrave 020 7903 0676

Maxima, the AIM listed provider of software and IT solutions, today announces the conditional acquisition of Ringwood Group plc ("Ringwood") for a consideration of £2.9m. The acquisition is in line with Maxima's strategy, stated at the time of its IPO, of being a consolidator in the fragmented enterprise software market.

The Board anticipates that the acquisition will be earnings enhancing in the current financial year.

Ringwood is a leading supplier of web-based content management and document archiving software. It has a broad base of over 200 clients in the financial services, public and industrial sectors including organisations such as Royal Bank of Scotland, Norwich Union, HM Land Registry, The Met Office and ExxonMobil. It is based in Aylesbury, with a sales office in New Hampshire, USA.

Ringwood had revenues of £3.2m in the year to 31 March 2005, 65% were from recurring support contracts with its existing customer base. Profit before tax was £29K and net assets were £1.0m. (un-audited)

The acquisition, which is conditional on the agreed waiver by the shareholders of Ringwood of the application of the City Code on Takeovers and Mergers to the acquisition, will be settled by a total consideration of £2.9m, comprising cash at completion of £2.2m and the issue of 400,000 new ordinary Maxima shares of 1p each, representing 3% of the Company's issued share capital ("New Ordinary Shares").

At completion, Ringwood had net cash in excess of £1.5m and carries forward tax losses in excess of £100k, therefore the purchase price represents an effective enterprise value of approximately £1.3m.

The New Ordinary Shares will, upon issue, rank pari passu with the Company's existing issued ordinary shares. Application has been made for the New Ordinary Shares to be admitted to trading on AIM, and dealings are expected to commence on Friday 12 August 2005. The vendors of Ringwood have agreed not to sell these shares without permission of the Company's broker, Seymour Pierce for at least 12 months from the date of completion of the acquisition.

Kelvin Harrison, Maxima's Chief Executive said: "I am delighted to announce the acquisition of Ringwood, Maxima's second acquisition since floating on AIM in November 2004. Ringwood is a perfect fit with our existing enterprise software operations. It has an impressive range of clients, adding to our existing industrial and public sector client base and introducing us to the financial services sector. I welcome the team and the skills they bring to Maxima."

Mike Crisp, Ringwood's Managing Director said: "I am confident that as part of Maxima, Ringwood will grow profitably. Our product and skills fit well in the Maxima portfolio, creating great opportunities for our staff, and customers. I am pleased to be staying on in a consultancy role to Maxima."

For further information, please contact:

Maxima
Kelvin Harrison, Chief Executive 07801 380 616

Geoff Bicknell, Group Finance Director

Seymour Pierce
Mark Percy/John Depasquale 0207 107 8000

Smithfield
Sara Musgrave/Sarah Richardson 020 7903 0676