Reading-based Idox plc announced the acquisition of Stirling-based thinkWhere Limited, a geospatial information services (GIS) technology business.

Idox said thinkWhere provides end to end GIS systems using open source, cloud-based products and applications, “providing unique access to a wealth of open datasets supported by professional consulting services.”

thinkWhere has established a growing customer base in the public and commercial sectors in the UK, with notable clients such as Tilhill Forestry, Eurogeographics, Scottish Government and Buccleuch Estates.

“Geospatial information systems provide a framework for gathering, managing and analysing data about the physical world, allowing customers to visualise spatial data to analyse relationships and interactions,” said Idox.

“This is of particular importance to public sector organisations requiring GIS information to assist with built environment decision making and policy.

“Having previously been equally owned by Falkirk and Stirling Councils, the acquisition will provide thinkWhere and its staff with the investment and resources to scale and accelerate as part of Idox.

“As Idox continues to build on its public sector software focused growth strategy, having acquired Aligned Assets in June, this latest move will help build capability and new opportunities for both our customers and products.

“The acquisition consideration and the initial impact on the group’s earnings is not material.”

Idox CEO David Meaden said: “This exciting acquisition strengthens our GIS, mapping and data capabilities.

“Building on our recent acquisition of Aligned Assets, thinkWhere will create more opportunities to provide customers with smarter data and better integration to simplify and improve their operations.”