DDI System Acquires General Data Systems

DDI System, a market-specific distribution ERP technology, announces its acquisition of General Data Systems of St Louis, MO.

General Data Systems is a well-recognized solution provider in the small to medium sized wholesale distributor software space. Founded in 1981, GDS has been meeting the challenges of distributors in a cross section of wholesale industry verticals. GDS President Allen Whiting strongly believes the merger with DDI System will continue the guiding principles of exceptional customer service and strengthen the next-generation ERP technology path.

“As the distribution marketplace meets the challenges of online competition, GDS welcomes this new partnership with DDI System and their Inform ERP software. Inform ERP is an exceptionally robust system handling the specific workflow of wholesale distribution while providing a unique holistic approach to CRM, mobility and eCommerce,” says Whiting.

DDI System, an ERP software company with the highest customer retention in the industry, will extend its vast wholesale distribution technology expertise, and a well-versed team of trainers, transition experts and developers, to the GDS customer base. DDI President and Founder Adam Waller, who grew up in the distribution supply business, sees the coming together of the two companies as an exciting growth opportunity for their clients. “At DDI, we focus on distributor success leveraging industry specific functionality combined with technology to foster customer engagement in a shifting digital market,” says Waller.

“DDI and GDS share a deep commitment to operational excellence for the independent distributor. This merger will add even more experienced professionals to the DDI team and a well-established path forward for GDS’ loyal users,” adds COO Barbara Jagoe. “DDI’s history of proven data migration and implementation is what drives success early on when adopting a new ERP system. Our dedication to our clients and their distribution challenges is the reason DDI continues to be a partner of choice for over 850 distribution companies throughout North America.”

GDS users were invited to engage in an open-forum session with GDS president Allen Whiting and DDI leadership on June 28th.  The discussion will highlight the move forward strategy and address any questions current GDS users may have.  The session will spotlight DDI’s breadth of capabilities including a strong focus on eCommerce, embedded CRM and mobility for sales teams on-the-go.

In 2014, DDI System’s acquisition of Johnstone Supply’s software division introduced over 70 Johnstone Supply store groups to the Inform ERP platform. “DDI System has been a terrific partner, continuously adding useful technology to help distributors gain control over their largest asset and stay competitive in an evolving marketplace,” says Kim Cafferty, Owner Johnstone Supply, Omaha, NE.