Kewill plc has acquired Minihouse, a provider of software for complying with European customs rules, with operations in the Benelux region. According to Kewill, Minihouse was the first European software provider to adopt a software-as-a-service (SaaS) model for the delivery of customs applications. With offices in Heerenveen, the Netherlands and Antwerp, Belgium, Minihouse counts among its customer base Cargill, Lyondell, Corus Staal BV, Wartsila, DB Schenker, CEVA Logistics, Philip Morris and DSV. The acquisition strengthens Kewill's European customs services while expanding its international global trade coverage, said chief executive officer Paul Nichols. The deal comes as European regulators are preparing to roll out the Excise Movement Control System and Import Control System. Through its CustomsXchange initiative, Kewill offers a "one-stop shop" for businesses needing to deal with customs agencies in multiple countries. Minihouse founder Ronald de Vries will remain as its managing director, Kewill said.
