Propella and Data Freight join forces – 11 November 2005

Two of Auckland's longest established software companies, Propella Software and Data Freight, have joined forces to take on the world.

Propella, which began as Focus Computer Systems but was renamed two years ago after its flagship product, and Data Freight were coincidentally both established in 1981 – making them real survivors in the fast-paced cut-throat software industry.

Propella develops and markets business management software with "the power to blow any other business management software out of the water". Data Freight develops and markets Ulyssys freight forwarding and customs brokerage software and Colosys warehouse inventory management software.

The companies are headed by good mates Brian Keltie and Robert Wolff. "It's bringing a lot of things together," says Propella managing director Keltie. "We have known each other for 30 years, there is a lot of synergy between our products and we will expand our knowledgebase by combining our people."

Under an agreement Data Freight's five staff will join Propella's 10 staff in Propella's offices in Mairangi Bay. Robert Wolff will become general manager of Propella, which will take on the support contracts and marketing for Ulyssys and Colosys. Data Freight will become a shell company holding the intellectual property for Ulyssys and Colosys.

"We already work together on a number of clients and merging into one operating company will open up more opportunities for Propella, Ulyssys and Colosys in New Zealand and globally."

Pictured Rob Wolff, (left) General Manager and Brian Keltie Managing Director