HighJump Acquires Delivery Management Software Company

HighJump Software, a 3M company (St. Paul, Minn.), reached an agreement to acquire Global Beverage Group Inc. (GBG, Waterloo, Ont.), a provider of delivery management software for direct store delivery. About 570 consumer packaged goods companies currently rely on GBG solutions to manage shelf space and branded products. Focusing on the “last mile” of delivery, its software helps route drivers improve merchandising, delivery and reconciliation of routes, which can lead to increased sales effectiveness and customer service. The software provides capabilities for specific markets, including soft drinks, beer, baked goods, wine and spirits and snack foods.

The transaction is expected to close November 2006. Exact terms were not disclosed.