EXMOUTH-based software developer Digita has pulled off a major coup as international retailer Tesco has chosen to use the company's award-winning personal tax software.
It is the latest boost for the expanding IT firm, of the Liverton Business Park, and is expected to signal the start of a long-term relationship with the supermarket.
Jerry Rihll, managing director of Digita, said: "This is another example of moving up to the next level. It's a new phase for the company and we're really excited.
"We operate in a highly competitive market and have been gratified by a significant number of business wins in recent months.
"We are especially delighted that a business of the stature of Tesco has opted for Digita Personal Tax to support its employees. Dealing with a great British organisation like Tesco, you need depth."
Mr Rihll said that the value of the contract runs into five figures but said the true value was likely to be far higher.
He said: "Tesco is an international organisation which requires high performance. It's a big boost for accountancy professionals like us. It not only demonstrates the functionality of the product but the breadth of its application for tax practitioners in business outside the accountancy profession."
Earlier in the year, Digita joined Thomson Reuters as its tax and accounting division after which it expanded its staff by eight.
Six of these positions have been filled, but in the wake of the Tesco deal, Digita is expanding once again.
Mr Rihll said: "Since joining Thomson Reuters, recruitment has been very fertile and we're looking for good people.
"This year the company has grown by over 30 per cent, which is outstanding in such difficult times. And we're pleased that that is going to continue."
Although Digita has sold Tesco the personal tax element of its integrated suite and provided training, the relationship does not end there.
Mr Rihll explained that the relationship would continue over the years as Digita would supply compliance updates at the beginning of the financial year.
Mr Rihll also said he didn't believe global players like Sage were a big threat.
Mr Rihll said: "Sage is the largest successful accounts package company in the UK but their strength is with the small business. We actually work with them and there are interfaces between the two types of software.
"Very large organisations like Tesco have to look at tax and compliance from a global perspective. There are huge implications from understanding the benefits. We're in the age of global organisations and providers — and we've started to take our place among the UK's global windows."
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