Neopost in new joint venture
Neopost and Esker, a worldwide leader in document process automation solutions and pioneer in cloud computing, have formed a joint venture to market cloud-based solutions to small and midsize enterprise (SME) clients worldwide, allowing for mail distribution as well as the automation of supplier and customer invoices. Under this agreement, software as a service (SaaS) solutions, based on Esker’s on-demand platform, will be marketed by the Neopost network under the names and colors of Neopost’s distribution subsidiaries. The French and U.S. markets, where the two partners already enjoy strong market positions, will be targeted as the first priorities.
This agreement follows the great success of the on-demand mail solution pilot, Neotouch, based on Esker solutions and marketed in France by Neopost. Neotouch allows more than 500 Neopost France customers to automate the delivery of their documents via mail, fax, email or SMS.
Denis Thiery, Neopost’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, commented: “We are very happy to extend our collaboration with our partner Esker. This new agreement will allow us to enrich our offer of digital solutions for SME customers. These reliable and intelligent cloud-based solutions for the processing and automation of incoming and outgoing invoices meet the expanding needs of our customers.”
Jean-Michel Bérard, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Esker, added: “The strength of the Neopost distribution network will allow Esker to provide solutions to SMEs worldwide. The SME market, where our presence is still modest, will significantly grow in the coming years.”
The joint company will be owned 70% by Neopost and 30% by Esker. It will be fully consolidated into Neopost’s accounts and accounted for using the equity method in Esker’s accounts.
