Glasgow software group Altia-ABM on global expansion drive as profits surge

Altia-ABM, the Glasgow-based software group specialising in investigation and covert management software, has undertaken a major expansion of its global operations.

Chairman John Boyle said he was very encouraged by the performance of the software group.

The group, which develops software used by law enforcement organisations, tax authorities and government agencies, has expanded its sales and support office in Melbourne, Australia, as well as its operations in Canada, Colombia and Peru.

Confirmation of the global growth came as the firm, chaired by John Boyle, posted annual results showing an increase in revenue, profit and its customer base.

Boyle said: “We are very encouraged by the performance of the group. Our solid financial growth has enabled us to develop our offering across the world.

“This has been particularly evident in Australia where we now have fully functional in-country operation and a subsidiary group company serving the needs of government and law enforcement agencies. We are acutely aware of the technological and logistical challenges facing organisations during the Covid-19 pandemic and, in particular, we are helping our customers around the world as they address these challenges and adapt to remote working.”

Revenues for the year ending December 2019 rose 17 per cent to £5.9 million thanks to organic growth across the operations. Group earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (Ebitda) jumped 92 per cent to £1.4m.

Chief executive Ian Watson said: “Our financial performance improves year by year and this reflects the demand from national and regional police forces, government and other investigating authorities for robust investigation software. We are forecasting continued sustained growth across the world during 2020.”

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