Transportation and shipping logistic management firm Agile Network has entered an agreement to purchase Ajilus – a Seattle-based shipping systems and supply chain software consultancy.
Ajilus, apart from having a name that fits well within its new parent company – specializes in filling in the gaps that occur between warehouse management, transportation management and eCommerce fulfillment. Their prorietary software: Transportation Management & Execution (TME) is able to simultaneously manage shipping for customers, FedEx, UPS, DHL and the USPS – as well as a variety of other smaller international and regional shipping outfits. Over the course of its 20 year lifespan it has a well established track record with some very big names in commerce, including Amazon, Costco, REI and Nintendo.
With Ajilus’ technology- Agile will be able to add the firm’s historical gravitas and expertise to its software platform.
The deal to acquire Ajillus comes as the retail supply chain as the retail supply chain – and its management – is becoming an increasingly complex and competitive space as retailers across the spectrum are looking to level up their eCommerce offerings. A month ago Honeywell agreed to buy Intelligrated – a warehouse fulfillment solutions outfit – for $1.5 billion. Honeywell is additionally also considering acquiring JDA Software in a $3 billion deal.
Amazon is widely held to be the engine behind the big and expensive shift since significant investments in the supply chain are a key part of its growth strategy. It’s why you see Walmart buying Jet.com – with its very special shipping efficiency and basket building algorithms, and Target working double time to hire away Amazon’s executive team.
