AXI strengthens growth ambitions with new investor Strada Partners

AXI welcomes investor Strada Partners as a new shareholder. Strada Partners, who takes over from Indufin, intends to collaborate with AXI to grow AXI's software products and cloud services. Following the acquisition of Toba HR Solutions from the Tobania Group, AXI is Strada's second software investment in two months.

Strong brand

“Since the first management buy-out from the former VEV (predecessor of Voka) in 1985, AXI has achieved healthy growth year after year—but our ambitions remain high,” says Paul Peeters, CEO of AXI. “An AXI employee is only satisfied when real added value is created for the customer. To continue capitalizing on our unique positioning, we must first focus on ourselves. We aim to expand into new markets and further refine our product portfolio. With Strada Partners, we’ve found a dynamic team with a strong track record in software as well as international buy & build experience. With this new shareholder, continuity for AXI’s customers and employees is also guaranteed.”

AXI’s case management software is the benchmark for government institutions in Belgium and the Netherlands in handling files such as permits and subsidy applications. Customers include the Dutch Council of State, the Belgian Federal Public Services of Justice and Finance, NMBS/SNCB, and various regional departments and agencies. AXI’s financial and procurement software has a solid footprint with clients such as Jan De Nul and many players in the public and healthcare sectors. AXI’s retail software powers major brands including Colruyt, De Bijenkorf, NS, Intergamma, and Plus supermarkets. Finally, AXI Digital Transformation focuses on Hybrid Cloud, Digital Workplace, Microsoft Development, and Networking & Security solutions and services, with customers such as Baloise, Bebat, ZNA, and GZA.

AXI’s growth plans center on developing new solutions and services and attracting talented employees. “We want AXI to remain a trusted name in our focus markets and for future employees. Building a strong brand is essential to that goal,” adds Paul Peeters.

Matthias Vandepitte, Managing Partner at Strada Partners, agrees: “AXI has built an impressive track record and already generates two-thirds of its added value with proprietary software products for leading players in healthcare, retail, industry, and government. In addition to organic growth, we will actively seek acquisition opportunities in Western Europe to strengthen AXI’s market position and expand its software portfolio. We also plan to accelerate the development of AXI’s cloud offering within its IT services division.”

Sustainable partnership

Strada Partners typically invests between €5 and €50 million per transaction, and has set aside capital for AXI’s future acquisitions. Alongside Strada Partners, AXI’s management and more than 100 employees will remain significant shareholders. This broad-based ownership makes AXI unique—and highly attractive as an employer.