ClearCourse acquires Davidson Richards to boost retail software
ClearCourse has announced the acquisition of Davidson Richards, a provider of retail management and electronic point of sale (EPOS) systems.
Davidson Richards, founded in 1977 and based in Derby, has a history of delivering cloud-based management and EPOS solutions that serve the retail industry. The company launched its flagship product, OpSuite, in 2012 to address shortcomings in standard off-the-shelf systems within the sector.
OpSuite integration
OpSuite enables retailers to manage and centralise their operations by integrating with various core business systems such as accounting software, eCommerce platforms, mobile applications, customer loyalty schemes, and warehousing management. The system is widely recognised in the garden centre retail sector, but its functionality is also applied by retailers in grocery, fashion, and furniture segments.
Through the acquisition, Davidson Richards will expand its service capabilities by offering integrated payment and eCommerce solutions to its customers. These will be provided in conjunction with other specialist businesses within the ClearCourse group, enabling Davidson Richards to prioritise the development of new client relationships and introduce the OpSuite platform to new retail markets.
Company background
The Davidson Richards team consists of experienced professionals, including former retailers, who provide consultancy, training, tailored software development, and dedicated support services. Team members remain closely involved in technical and support delivery to offer direct value to clients.
ClearCourse, based in London, provides software and embedded payment solutions targeted at small and medium-sized businesses. The acquisition represents an opportunity for ClearCourse to strengthen its presence in the retail sector. Davidson Richards's long-standing client base and specialist team align with ClearCourse's stated values and business approach.
Statements from leadership
Christina Hamilton, Chief Executive Officer of ClearCourse, said: "We are delighted to welcome Davidson Richards into the ClearCourse group as part of our Retail & Hospitality Software vertical. OpSuite is a market leading product that is well positioned to expand its innovative offering into new sectors. We are excited about the natural integration this partnership enables, as OpSuite will be able to offer in-house payment and other commerce enabling solutions through the wider ClearCourse group products."
Keith Bateman, Sales Director at Davidson Richards, welcomed the acquisition:
"This acquisition marks an exciting new chapter for our business and customers. Joining the ClearCourse group will enable us to enhance the service we offer our customers, particularly through the introduction of an in-house Electronic Funds Transfer solution. ClearCourse is the ideal partner to help us to grow the business through an increased investment into marketing and to reach more customers."
Retail sector impact
Davidson Richards's offerings are tailored to multi-site retailers, delivering functions such as stock management, supplier coordination, customer promotions, and loyalty programme administration. The firm supports businesses in sectors that include garden centres, heritage attractions, fashion, and farm shops, providing technology intended to streamline business operations and improve the customer experience.
ClearCourse has expanded through the acquisition of more than 40 companies across its key verticals since its founding in 2018. Its strategy is to consolidate industry-specific software and payment solutions that support over 20,000 customers across the UK and Ireland.
The integration of Davidson Richards's expertise and product suite is intended to support this strategy by allowing ClearCourse to offer retail clients enhanced operational and payment technology support. The move provides ClearCourse with increased reach in the retail sector while offering Davidson Richards new resources for product development and client engagement.
