Atturra Prepares for SAP ECC Deadline with Chrome Deal

The approaching SAP ECC deadline is prompting strategic moves within the SAP ecosystem, including Atturra Limited’s acquisition of Chrome Consulting Pty Ltd to enhance its enterprise content management (ECM) capabilities.

Atturra, through its subsidiary Anatas Pty Ltd, has signed a Share Sale Agreement to acquire Melbourne-based Chrome Consulting, a major player in SAP/OpenText integration. Chrome is renowned for its expertise in SAP enterprise content management, helping clients streamline data optimization and transformation processes within SAP S/4HANA environments. The acquisition reflects Atturra’s intent to strengthen its position in the Australian IT services market while aligning with the shifting needs of SAP customers as they prepare for the end of SAP ECC support.

Addressing the SAP ECC Deadline

The SAP ECC deadline has significant implications for SAP users as they transition to modern solutions like SAP S/4HANA. Chrome Consulting has positioned itself as a pivotal partner in this process, particularly in managing data decommissioning, optimization, and transformation projects. By integrating Chrome’s capabilities, Atturra aims to offer comprehensive support to SAP customers navigating this critical transition.

According to Stephen Kowal, CEO of Atturra, this acquisition aligns with Atturra’s strategy to become a leader in enterprise IT solutions. Chrome’s expertise in ECM, combined with Atturra’s service portfolio, is expected to broaden their offerings to SAP users. The integration also addresses the pressing demand for robust governance, compliance, and data management solutions as organizations modernize their SAP landscapes.

Chrome Consulting’s experience with OpenText Extended Content Management (xECM) within SAP environments is a key asset for Atturra. Chrome has completed over 80% of OpenText xECM projects in the ANZ region, supporting diverse industries ranging from mining to federal government agencies. This background enhances Atturra’s ability to provide scalable, SAP-integrated ECM solutions tailored to industry-specific challenges.

Mark Frear, CEO of Chrome Consulting, highlighted that joining forces with Atturra provides opportunities to expand service delivery and customer reach within the SAP ecosystem. Frear emphasized that the partnership would enable Chrome to scale its operations and address evolving customer needs more effectively, particularly as organizations face the operational and compliance challenges posed by the SAP ECC deadline.

Expanding SAP Solutions Portfolio

Beyond ECM, this acquisition bolsters Atturra’s data services offerings across SAP and Microsoft enterprise landscapes. With Chrome’s established presence in the SAP ecosystem, Atturra intends to tap into new customer segments and enhance its value proposition. Atturra’s focus on leveraging leading technologies underpins its broader strategy to serve as a comprehensive partner for enterprise IT modernization.

This collaboration also brings synergies in managed support services and strategic advisory, areas where Chrome has demonstrated consistent success. Atturra’s investment underscores its commitment to providing clients with innovative tools to address the complexities of transitioning to SAP S/4HANA, particularly in light of the looming SAP ECC deadline.

The acquisition involves a mix of cash and shares, with an upfront payment of $4 million and additional performance-based payments tied to Chrome’s earnings targets for FY25 and FY26. The transaction’s valuation reflects the growth potential of Chrome’s SAP-focused services. With the acquisition expected to close by December 2024, both companies anticipate a seamless integration process supported by shared values and complementary expertise.

For SAP customers, this acquisition highlights the increasing emphasis on robust ECM solutions as part of broader digital transformation efforts. The combination of Atturra’s resources and Chrome’s specialized SAP/OpenText expertise aims to provide clients with the tools needed to meet compliance standards, enhance cyber resilience, and achieve operational efficiency.

As the SAP ECC deadline draws closer, partnerships like Atturra and Chrome’s are becoming vital for organizations navigating the transition to SAP S/4HANA. With a focus on innovation and client success, this collaboration is set to deliver tangible benefits to SAP users across industries.