Open Fifth buys majority of Sweden's imCode to build Nordic library-software base
What's the deal? UK open source library software provider Open FifthDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → has acquired a 67.73% majority stake in Swedish specialist imCode Partner ABDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, along with its wholly-owned Norwegian subsidiary, Libriotech AS. The deal, announced in October 2026, is a buyout; terms were undisclosed.
What's the endgame? The investment unites two of Europe's leading open source library software providers and positions the group as one of Europe's largest players in Koha-based library technology. Open FifthDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → wants to meet growing demand among Northern European local authorities and academic institutions for flexible, cost-effective alternatives to proprietary vendors.
Why now? The deal completes a planned succession for imCode, founded in 1998 and now Sweden's largest provider of open source library software. Co-founders Hillar Loor and Per Östlund are exiting leadership and ownership after nearly 30 years, with Loor staying on as a consultant through the transition.
What changes for customers? Nothing immediate. imCode will keep operating as a separate entity, retaining its brand, structure, and staff, with all customer contracts, service level agreements, support, and in-country hosting intact. Chief executive officer Tomas Holasek and deputy Crister Karlén continue to lead operations.
Open Fifth commercial director Andrew Auld, who takes the chair of imCode's board, called it "an exciting day for Open Fifth and for imCode." Loor said he had "found a partner in the UK who shares our values and can secure imCode's future."
The signal: The deal reflects consolidation among open source library vendors looking to scale against proprietary rivals across the UK and the Nordics. For founder-led firms, it also shows M&A doubling as a succession tool — transferring ownership while preserving culture and continuity.
Read more: librarytechnology.org
Image credit: o palsson
