Forma Innovations accelerates growth with Sofco acquisition, supported by Shawbrook’s Committed Acquisition Facility and Revolving Credit Facility
Strategic partnership supports Forma’s buy-and-build strategy in the retail technology sector.
At a glance
Forma Innovations has acquired Sofco, a specialist in demand and supply planning, and production scheduling software for consumer goods manufacturers and retailers. The transaction was facilitated by Shawbrook, who had previously structured facilities to support Forma with their buy-and-build strategy.
This deal marks the latest milestone in Forma’s ongoing partnership with Shawbrook, highlighting our shared focus on growth and innovation in retail technology. In the Q&A below, Tom Llewellyn-Lloyd, Principal of Tern and John Palmer, Senior Director at Shawbrook discuss the acquisition, the evolving retail software sector, and how this collaboration is helping to drive Forma’s long-term vision. These insights demonstrate the strength of the alliance and its role in keeping Forma at the forefront of a fast-moving industry.
Could you walk us through Forma Innovations’ recent acquisition journey, including the deal with Sofco?
Tom:
Our journey has been defined by strategic growth and building on earlier successes such as the acquisition of Retail Manager Solutions. The addition of Sofco further enhances our expertise in data-driven retail software and our ability to supply mission critical software solutions across the retail supply chain. Each acquisition reflects our commitment to innovation and delivering greater value across the sector.
What was the rationale behind targeting Sofco for acquisition?
Tom:
The addition of Sofco to the Forma Innovations Group enables Forma to deliver a more comprehensive solution across the retail supply chain. Customers can now benefit from an integrated suite of tools across retail space management, in‑store operations, and advanced demand and supply chain planning-enhancing end‑to‑end visibility, efficiency, and control across our customers’ businesses.
What trends are you seeing in the retail software market that are shaping Forma’s strategy?
Tom:
The retail sector is placing greater emphasis on data‑driven decision‑making and integrated planning solutions to remain competitive. We’re seeing growing demand for technologies that deliver real‑time insight, optimise space and demand planning, and streamline multi‑channel operations. As retailers face increasing margin pressure, the focus is firmly on improving forecasting accuracy, driving operational efficiency, and reducing costs to protect profitability.
What challenges have you encountered during this period of rapid growth and acquisition?
Tom:
Integration is always a challenge - bringing together new teams, technologies, and cultures requires careful planning and open communication. We’ve learned the importance of a clear vision and structured processes to ensure that each acquisition strengthens our core business and delivers value to our clients.
From Shawbrook’s perspective, what makes Forma Innovations a compelling client?
John:
Forma stands out for their clear vision, strong leadership, and deep market knowledge. Their disciplined approach to buy-and-build growth, combined with a focus on innovation, makes them exciting partner for Shawbrook who we will continue to support through committed facilities.
Thinking about the benefits of a Committed Acquisition Facility, how does this offering differentiate itself and better support long-term ambitions of partners like Forma Innovations?
John:
By structuring bespoke, pre-agreed funding, CAF caters for future acquisitive opportunities, enabling our clients to move quickly when these arise and maintaining momentum in their growth strategies. This approach ensures our clients can confidently pursue acquisitions and invest in innovation, knowing they have the financial backing to adapt to market developments and realise their long-term vision.
Looking ahead, what are the next steps for Forma Innovations?
Tom:
We remain committed to pursuing further strategic opportunities that enhance both our existing capabilities and our ability to provide an integrated suite of retail focused software solutions to our customers. As the retail landscape continues to evolve, we see significant potential to broaden our portfolio through targeted acquisitions and partnerships. Our focus remains firmly on delivering innovative, data‑driven solutions that create tangible value and measurable ROI for retailers, helping them optimise operations, improve agility, and drive sustainable growth in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
Any advice for other tech businesses considering a buy and build approach?
Tom:
My advice would be to start with absolute clarity on what you want to achieve and maintain discipline around how each acquisition contributes to that vision. A successful buy‑and‑build strategy isn’t just about scale. It’s about fit, synergy, and creating long‑term value. Invest time early in integration planning, align your teams culturally and operationally, and always keep your customers at the centre of every decision. Finally, surrounding yourself with experienced, strategically aligned partners like Shawbrook can be critically important to ensure you are able to move quickly on your execution strategy.
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