Civica acquires payment systems specialist NRS

The Civica Group, a market leader in business-critical software applications, digital solutions and managed services, has announced that Civica UK Limited, the company’s wholly owned subsidiary, has acquired payment systems specialist Nationwide Retail Systems Limited (NRS).

Based in Barnsley, NRS is an established provider of integrated payment solutions notably for the education sector where it is the market leader in cashless catering systems. The company has more than 2,000 installations with local authority, school and college customers, providing services for over 1 million students and staff on a daily basis, with a growing presence in other sectors from health to hospitality.

The move continues Civica’s strategy to complement organic growth with the acquisition of software-based businesses which extend the company’s leading position in existing and adjacent market sectors. It adds technologies that Civica does not currently offer, including an effective identity management solution, and will result in an enlarged payments business with the opportunity to expand on the current market presence of both organisations.

NRS’s award-winning Trust-e system provides for all aspects of cashless catering, helping to improve speed of service and maximise income while delivering a range of benefits to students from allergy alerts to anonymity of free school meals. The SmartiD identity management system enables users to register once and use widely, from school meals and vending to door access and libraries, using a variety of methods including proximity tags, smart cards and biometrics. NRS’s EPOS solutions are also used by commercial organisations across the UK, including Travelodge and Genting Casinos.

Civica payments software is used to process transactions for over 15 million UK citizens, and the two companies have a history of working together successfully for customers including Telford and Wrekin Council, Torfaen Council and Wrexham Council.

Wayne Story, Chief Executive of Civica said: “I am delighted to welcome NRS to the Civica Group. The team brings technology and expertise which increases our market presence and capability at an important time for our customers, as all organisations look to meet growing expectations through digital technology and automation and as cashless payments continue to grow in popularity.”

David Paylor, Chief Business Development Officer at Nationwide Retail Systems Ltd, said: “We are extremely excited to become part of the Civica Group. We strongly believe that this is a very positive move which will help us to grow and expand our offerings into both the UK and international markets. We are already proud of our position as market leaders but Civica’s knowledge and experience in providing software solutions will be invaluable as we continue our development in the coming years. The introduction of Civica Payments will also broaden our scope and reach into the education sector and beyond.”