A long-established specialist software business, embedded within complex manufacturing environments, entering its next phase of growth with a US-headquartered strategic acquirer.

Headpoint Advisors has advised the shareholders of Midlands-based industrial software specialist FLAGS Software on its sale to US-headquartered Recur Software.

Founded in 1989 and based in Solihull, FLAGS provides quality management and production control software for complex manufacturing environments.

Its technology captures quality and production data at the point of build, enabling manufacturers to maintain detailed product traceability, identify quality issues earlier and reduce costly rework.

Over more than three decades, FLAGS has developed a strong position within demanding manufacturing environments across the automotive, aerospace, rail and marine sectors. Its software has been deployed within manufacturers including Jaguar Land Rover, Bentley Motors, Aston Martin and Harley-Davidson.

Recur Software partners with industry-specific software businesses to support long-term growth through continued investment in product development and operational capability.

The acquisition will support further investment in the FLAGS platform alongside expansion into new sectors and international markets.

The Headpoint team was led by Partner Emmet Keating, supported by Joseph Lowe and Victoria Bond.

Headpoint worked alongside Freeths, with Lee Clifford, Mike McMahon and Kate Rogers advising FLAGS on the legal aspects of the transaction.

Following completion, FLAGS CEO Janet Redman commented on the role played by Headpoint:

"I'd like to add a massive thank you to Emmet Keating and Joseph Lowe from Headpoint Advisors, without whom we would never have reached this point. They truly went above and beyond to make this happen. They have felt like an extension to the FLAGS Software team and I'd like to take this opportunity to applaud their hard work and professionalism."

Emmet Keating, Partner at Headpoint Advisors, said:

"FLAGS is a highly specialist software business with technology embedded within some exceptionally demanding manufacturing environments. Nick, Janet and the team have built a business with deep sector knowledge, longstanding customer relationships and a product that plays an important role within its customers' operations. It has been a pleasure to support them through the transaction and we look forward to seeing FLAGS continue to develop as part of Recur."