A SOFTWARE firm is pushing on with growth plans after receiving backing for a system.

Indigo says Philippinesbased Ionics EMS has invested in its warehouse management apparatus.

The move represents a significant moment in the progress of Indigo, which previously founded a base in Hong Kong to secure work across the Asia Pacific region.

Indigo, which runs its UK office from a site on the outskirts of Durham City, says it warehouse management equipment helps companies handle operations more efficiently by increasing stock control awareness and reducing the dependence on paperbased administration.

Bosses added Ionics will take on Indigo’s software to bring delivery and warehouse work back in-house, which it believes will save costs and provide scope to extend into further customer service areas.

Mike Hill, Indigo chief executive, said the Ionics contract was a real statement of intent for the business, which set up the Indigo Software Asia Pacific venture last year to gain greater access to markets in the Philippines, China, Indonesia and Vietnam.

He said: “Ionics is an innovative group of companies with ambitious plans for the future.

“Our warehouse management system provides a perfect fit for the warehouse requirements and we are delighted to be working with them.”

Jay Chavez, vice-president for operations and supply chain management at Ionics, said the business was impressed by Indigo’s apparatus and officials’ knowledge.

He added: “A two week proof of concept project demonstrated Indigo was the right solution and had the capabilities we require both now and in the future as the company continues to grow.

“In addition, Indigo’s consultants had a lot of real world industry expertise in the electronics manufacturing sector which we can learn from to implement best practices.”

The deal comes just months after Indigo was the subject of a management buyout, which, at the time, officials said would lay the groundwork for international expansion.

Upon taking over the company from founder Peter McLane, Mr Hill was announced as chief executive, with Bill Ginn appointed chief financial officer and Darren Baxter made chief operations officer.

Mr McLane said: “Having founded Indigo almost 37 years ago, I am delighted to have created such a successful company and look forward to watching it thrive.

“The buyout ensures it remains independent and continues to support the North- East economy, with the prospect of a wider global remit in the future.”