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K2 Acquisition

K2 Acquisition: Key Details, Impact, and What Comes Next

February 13, 2025

Nintex's acquisition of K2 Software, Inc. marks a significant milestone in the process automation industry. This strategic move, completed on October 14, 2020, positions Nintex as the largest privately-held process automation software vendor globally. By integrating K2's advanced digital process automation solutions, Nintex aims to enhance its market reach and innovation capabilities, benefiting over 10,000 customers worldwide.

What Is K2?

K2

Founded in 2000, K2 specializes in low-code app development and process automation. Its core products include tools for app development, workflow automation, process management, document automation, and robotic process automation (RPA). K2 stands out in the market with its no-code/low-code development approach, intuitive design, and flexible data integration. The platform allows users to build and customize applications easily, integrating data from various sources and scaling to meet diverse business needs.

Who Acquired K2?

Nintex is a leader in process management and workflow automation, providing tools to automate business processes, manage workflows, and optimize operations across various industries and departments. Key products include Nintex Automation CE, a cloud-based platform, and Nintex Automation K2, an on-premises solution. The company also offers workflow automation, document automation, robotic process automation (RPA), and application development tools. Trusted by over 8,500 companies globally, Nintex is recognized for its strong market presence and integration capabilities with platforms like Salesforce and Microsoft.

When Was K2 Acquired?

Nintex announced its agreement to acquire K2 Software on October 1, 2020, and completed the acquisition on October 14, 2020. This acquisition occurred during a period of significant growth in the digital process automation market, driven by increasing demand for automation solutions. Industry analysts highlighted the strategic fit and potential market impact, noting that enterprises were rethinking their automation strategies to include more business process assets, forecasting substantial market growth in the coming years.

Why Was K2 Acquired?

  • Market Expansion: The acquisition of K2 Software significantly broadens Nintex's market reach, allowing it to serve over 10,000 customers, including more than 50% of the Fortune 500. This move enhances Nintex's global presence, with over 1.5 million users in more than 84 countries.
  • Technology Integration: By integrating K2's digital process automation solutions, Nintex enhances its capabilities in process mapping, mobile apps, digital forms, workflows, robotic process automation (RPA), document automation, and eSignatures. This combination aims to provide more innovative solutions to customers and improve operational efficiency.
  • Competitive Advantage: The acquisition positions Nintex as the world's largest privately-held process automation software vendor, generating over $200 million in annual recurring revenue. The combined strengths of Nintex and K2 offer a comprehensive suite of automation tools, enabling Nintex to maintain a competitive edge and address more complex data types and case management.

Acquisition Terms

  • Acquisition Price: The acquisition price was not publicly disclosed.
  • Payment Method: The payment method was not specified in the available sources.
  • Key Conditions or Agreements:
    • The transaction was subject to the completion of regulatory review and other closing conditions.
    • Specific deal terms, including any non-compete agreements or other significant clauses, were not publicly disclosed.

Impact on K2

The acquisition of K2 by Nintex has led to significant changes in operations and management. The integration of K2's digital process automation solutions into the Nintex Process Platform has streamlined operations, combining the strengths of both companies. This merger has also brought together their development teams, accelerating innovation in the digital process automation market. While specific management changes were not disclosed, the strategic alignment suggests a unified approach to enhancing product offerings and market reach.

In terms of product offerings, the acquisition has expanded Nintex's capabilities, incorporating K2's advanced process mapping, mobile apps, digital forms, workflows, RPA, document automation, and eSignatures. This comprehensive suite of tools aims to provide more robust and integrated solutions for customers. Employee reactions were not detailed, but customer feedback has been positive, with industry analysts highlighting the strategic fit and potential benefits. For founders considering business transitions, tools like Sunset can assist in managing these processes compliantly, ensuring a smooth and efficient transition.