IRIS strengthens its position as No 1 supplier to the not-for-profit sector with acquisition of specialist software provider, Donor Strategy

IRIS, the largest privately owned software and services business in the UK, has announced the acquisition of CharitySoftware Limited, trading as Donor Strategy.

This is a significant move for IRIS (www.iris.co.uk), strengthening its position as the No 1 supplier to the not-for-profit sector. It will increase its market share to 54% of the top 100 UK charities and over 1,000 not-for-profit organisations will be partnered by IRIS NFP Solutions. This acquisition marks a further step forward in IRIS’ goal to provide the NFP community with a quality portfolio of products to suit every type of organisation and will specifically extend its reach in the SME charity and membership market and in wider elements of the education arena, including independent schools and HE colleges.

The acquisition is good news for all Donor Strategy clients as it will provide a secure and stable future with access to the resources and investment of a major software house that is committed to continuous enhancement of its product and service offerings. The IRIS commitment to creating excellent customer service is its trademark and is reflected by a customer retention rate of 95% across the group; one of the highest in the software industry.

IRIS is recognised as one of the most dynamic companies in the UK, evidenced by its inclusion for the first time in the Sunday Times Microsoft Tech Track 100 league table 2008, which ranks Britain’s fastest growing privately owned technology companies based on their growth over the last three years.  

Simon Fowler, MD of IRIS NFP Solutions commented: “There is a tremendous synergy between the brands and the product portfolios are entirely complementary. Like IRIS, Donor Strategy has a first class reputation for its software and the quality of its personal service. By bringing Donor Strategy into IRIS NFP Solutions, we are able to offer an unparalleled wealth of knowledge and experience to this specialist sector; a factor that will undoubtedly strengthen our ability to satisfy a wider range of needs.”

Donor Strategy was established in 1994 by Jonathan Air, employs 28 staff and is based near Bristol. Jonathan commented on the move: “We are delighted that Donor Strategy has joined IRIS and we are confident that it will provide a safe future for our company. For some time, we have been searching for a way to develop the business further as part of a long term vision. As a larger organisation with the resources, service commitment and culture to maintain our favourable position in the market, IRIS will ensure that our customers’ investments are protected, our product stays in-tune with the sector and that client care remains central.”

Jonathan will remain in an advisory role in the initial stages, moving on to pursue social entrepreneurial projects in Africa.