The acquisition allows Labat Software Solutions to offer customers a broader package, while BCA becomes part of a BEE group that can tender for government and NGO business, Labat says.

"Due to the deal we are planning aggressive growth where we expect to more than double our current turnover figures in the next five years," says Bob Cork, MD of BCA. "barcodealliance is complementary to our ERP solution," says Mark Alexander, MD of Labat Software Solutions. "We already share common customers, and we believe that we can add value to existing customers through a tight partnership and offer more value to new customers."

Existing joint customers include Tiger Brands and Parmalat, among others. At the latter, the business gained a 30-40% improvement in order management and fulfilment from the combined system that BCA and Labat Software Solutions deployed, Labat claims.

BCA offers SATO printers, Armor ribbons and VIP labels with a range of accessories, along with technical assistance, training and maintenance.

The national business has its head office in the Western Cape, with branches in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng, and representation in other areas of the country.

Following the acquisition, plans are afoot to move to larger premises still in the Western Cape and expand the staff complement of 55.

The SATO printer range includes desktop and mobile printers, devices for the retail market and a range for industrial purposes.

BCA is the sole agent for the French Armor printer ribbons. It stocks a range of wax, wax and resin, and pure resin ribbons, and also supplies specific quality types for specialised applications with enhanced resistance to scuffing and smudging.

The company has also developed its own range of die-cut labels in various sizes for overprinting. Called VIP, the labels are aimed at the manufacturing, distribution centre, medical, access control, retail and other markets.

BCA is poised to include radio frequency identification (RFID) technology in its stable.

Cork says this offering, alongside BCA's variable information printing business, which goes beyond simple barcode reading and writing, will slot directly into Labat Software Solutions' offering.

"Our international suppliers have expressed their pleasure at the partnership with Labat Software Solutions, as it enhances their goals of further penetrating the sub-Saharan markets," says Cork.