Autodata has today announced that it has purchased SFTA, a technical solution provider and a major distributor for Autodata across France.
The acquisition comes a year after Autodata launched a completely new online product to provide workshops with technical information, instructions and diagnostics in the most advanced, comprehensive and business focussed structure to date.
After Autodata itself was acquired in May 2014 the company has accelerated its growth plans in Europe, growing its local sales force across both France and Germany where it holds many strong relationships and extensive industry support.
Acquiring SFTA greatly supports this strategy of increased growth in Europe and greater connection with the customer base. This means a greater footprint across Europe and increased feedback into the company’s product to help further drive development.
Further acquisitions are planned over the coming months; reinforcing the company’s dominant position and ambitions for the future in the European market.
Autodata has become globally renowned for its reliable and comprehensive technical data, trusted by thousands of aftermarket businesses worldwide. France in particular has been a big part of that growth, with the country now Autodata’s second largest subscriber base. This led to Autodata setting up their first French office in 2011.
Rod Williams, Chief Executive of Autodata, said: “We have worked closely and very successfully with SFTA for many years as they helped ensure Autodata is a go-to solution for workshops across the country. To have them as a bigger part of our future will allow us to combine our efforts in growing our customer base both in France and the wider European market”.
Nathalie Carrel, Managing Director of SFTA, said: “Autodata has been an integral part of SFTA since the business was started. We have seen them grow hugely over the years as they constantly set the standard for information resources to the aftermarket. With their latest product raising the game to a whole new level, this is an extremely exciting time to become part of an innovative and evolving business.”
SFTA will take on the Autodata brand, but will retain their current offices based in Pierrelatte.
