IBIS, the rapidly-expanding IT consultancy headquartered at Clifton Moor, York, today announced its takeover of Leeds-based software specialists Computer Solutions Ltd.

The acquisition, for an undisclosed but "significant" sum, will enable IBIS Business Consultants to provide bespoke software solutions to clients in addition to its consultancy, support and disaster recovery services, further boosting its more than £1 million turnover.

Jon Browne, managing director and founder of IBIS 14 years ago, said: "This is an ideal opportunity to expand our business. We have worked with Computer Solutions in the past and we know that they provide a high quality service so when the opportunity arose to incorporate them into our business we moved quickly.

"As a result of the takeover we have planned for an extra £250,000 in turnover for the first full year of operation and we expect to announce some fairly major clients in the near future."

The acquisition process was completed within days for IBIS by York law firm Harrowell Shaftoe.

Mr Browne added: "Speed was of the essence if this deal was to be completed successfully and I am grateful to Ann Austin of Harrowell Shaftoe who acted so quickly and efficiently."

Three of the five members of the development team of Computer Solutions have already re-located to IBIS headquarters in George Cayley Court, Clifton Moor, where numbers, including UK staff, have swelled to 25.

Richard Mirza, former technical director with Computer Solutions Ltd has been appointed software business development manager with IBIS.

He said: "This deal will enable us to provide software development combined with the expert consultancy required to enable it to be deployed effectively.

"All our existing clients can look forward to seamless continuity of service and a much enhanced service from a UK-wide organisation."

Updated: 09:34 Tuesday, October 15, 2002