In a strategic move to enhance customer engagement and payment solutions, **DivDat** has completed the acquisition of **Meridian Integration**. This merger is set to transform how healthcare providers, municipalities, utilities, and other organizations manage critical customer interactions.

## The Power of Integration

The acquisition combines **DivDat's proven payment solutions** with **Meridian Integration's customer engagement software**. Both companies bring decades of experience in integrating data from multiple payment channels, customer systems, and financial platforms. The result is a unified platform that merges digital customer engagement and payment processing, **eliminating vendor sprawl** and simplifying operations.

> "This acquisition represents an exciting new chapter for the markets we serve, our employees, and our company," said Jason Bierkle, President and CEO of DivDat. "Together, we are creating a stronger product offering, deeper expertise, and a broader vision for helping organizations improve customer experiences, reduce costs, streamline operations, and simplify reconciliation."

## Why This Acquisition Matters

Organizations today face mounting pressure to improve customer experience, reduce costs, and expand self-service options while ensuring that **unbanked and digitally underserved populations** are not left behind. This acquisition strengthens DivDat's ability to serve as a **single partner** for modernizing customer engagement, communications, and payments across both digital and in-person channels.

## Key Benefits of the Merger

- **Advance Digital Fluency:** Deliver comprehensive solutions that educate and guide users toward seamless digital adoption.
- **Level the Payer Landscape:** Ensure equitable payment access for every demographic, bridging the gap between billers and communities.
- **Reduce Operational Complexity:** Connect customer-facing channels with back-office systems to streamline reconciliation and increase call center efficiency.
- **Accelerate Innovation:** Expand a broader portfolio of solutions to enhance customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

## Looking Ahead

As **DivDat powered by Meridian** moves forward, clients can expect continued investment in innovation and service excellence. The combined company is uniquely positioned to deliver **seamless, inclusive experiences** across every stage of the customer journey, offering the resources and scalability to support complex enterprise initiatives while maintaining personalized service.

## About DivDat

Founded in 1971, DivDat helps organizations simplify and modernize the customer experience through digital engagement, self-service technologies, and payment solutions. By connecting every stage of the customer journey, DivDat enables utilities, municipalities, and other organizations to improve operational efficiency and foster financial inclusion.

For more information, visit [www.divdat.com](https://www.divdat.com).

DivDat Completes Acquisition of Meridian Integration, Expanding Customer Engagement, Self-Service, and Payment Solutions
              
            
            
              
                DivDat Completes Acquisition of Meridian Integration, Expanding Customer Engagement, Self-Service, and Payment Solutions
                PR Newswire
                DETROIT, Aug. 13, 2026
              
              
          
            DETROIT, Aug. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Diversified Data Processing & Consulting, Inc. ("DivDat") is pleased to announce its acquisition of Meridian Integration. The acquisition expands DivDat's ability to help healthcare providers, municipalities, utilities, and other organizations serve their customers by providing solutions to manage critical interactions with their customers.                                                             The acquisition combines DivDat's proven payment solutions and Meridian Integration's customer engagement software.    Both companies offer best-in-class solutions and when combined will provide critical service providers with the tools to enable their customers, collect payments and improve related efficiency.DivDat and Meridian have decades of experience integrating data from multiple payment channels, customer systems, and financial platforms.  The combined solution brings digital customer engagement and payment processing together in one integrated platform—eliminating vendor sprawl, simplifying operations, and delivering a consistent experience across every customer touchpoint."This acquisition represents an exciting new chapter for the markets we serve, our employees, and our company," said Jason Bierkle, President and CEO of DivDat. "Together, we are creating a stronger product offering, deeper expertise, and a broader vision for helping organizations improve customer experiences, reduce costs, streamline operations, and simplify reconciliation."Why This Acquisition MattersHealthcare providers, municipalities, utilities, and other organizations face growing pressure to improve customer experience, reduce costs, expand self-service options, modernize communications, simplify disconnected systems, and manage multiple vendors. At the same time, they must ensure that unbanked, cash-preferred, and digitally underserved populations are not left behind.The acquisition strengthens DivDat's ability to serve as a single partner for organizations seeking to modernize how customers engage, receive communications, complete transactions, and access payment options across both digital and in-person channels.Together, DivDat powered by Meridian is positioned to:Advance Digital Fluency: Deliver comprehensive solutions spanning customer engagement, communications, self-service, and payments that educate and guide users toward seamless digital adoption.Level the Payer Landscape: Expand technology and service capabilities to ensure equitable payment access for every demographic, bridging the gap between billers and their entire communities.Reduce Operational Complexity: Help organizations connect customer-facing channels with back-office systems and workflows to streamline reconciliation, increase call center efficiency, and support internal teams.Accelerate Innovation: Expand a broader portfolio of solutions designed to enhance customer satisfaction, support digital adoption, and improve operational efficiency.Looking AheadAs DivDat powered by Meridian moves forward as a combined organization, clients and partners can expect continued investment in innovation, service excellence, and long-term growth. The company remains focused on helping organizations create more connected customer experiences, simplify interactions, increase self-service adoption, and modernize the technologies that support customers and internal teams.By bringing together customer engagement, communications, self-service, integrations, and payment technologies, DivDat powered by Meridian is uniquely positioned to help organizations deliver seamless, inclusive experiences across every stage of the customer journey. The combined company offers the resources, expertise, and scalability to support complex enterprise initiatives while maintaining the responsiveness, accessibility, and personalized service that clients have come to expect.About DivDatFounded in 1971, DivDat helps organizations simplify and modernize the customer experience through digital engagement, self-service technologies, enterprise integrations, communications, and payment solutions. By connecting every stage of the customer journey—from engagement and communication to payment processing and revenue collection—DivDat enables utilities, municipalities, and other organizations to improve operational efficiency, enhance customer satisfaction, and achieve long-term success while fostering financial inclusion.To learn more about DivDat powered by Meridian and its expanded suite of customer engagement and payment solutions, visit www.divdat.com.Media Contact:Lindsey Myrand, Marketing Managerlmyrand@divdat.com 313-446-8386                  View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/divdat-completes-acquisition-of-meridian-integration-expanding-customer-engagement-self-service-and-payment-solutions-302850053.htmlSOURCE DivDat

DivDat Acquires Meridian Integration: A Game-Changer for Customer Engagement and Payments

**Keeping a vessel operating safely, efficiently and reliably depends on more than routine maintenance alone.** Access to expert technical support, genuine spare parts and experienced service professionals plays a critical role in maximizing uptime, reducing unexpected breakdowns and extending the service life of marine systems and components.

With decades of expertise in marine driveline technology, **ZF Aftermarket** supports vessel owners and operators throughout the entire lifecycle of their marine propulsion systems. Its comprehensive service offering includes transmissions, thrusters and control systems, covering diagnostics, lubricants, repairs, overhauls, retrofit solutions, repowering support and expert technical advice tailored to the needs of each vessel.

While routine servicing helps maintain performance, **preventative maintenance** is equally important in ensuring long-term reliability.

> "Marine propulsion systems operate in demanding conditions and are critical to a vessel's performance," said Shane Trenbath, Technical Services Manager at ZF in Oceania. "Preventative maintenance and scheduled overhauls allow operators to identify component wear before it reaches a critical point, reducing the likelihood of unexpected failures and helping avoid costly downtime. That's why ZF invests in a strong local service network backed by genuine parts, specialist technicians and global engineering expertise to help operators keep their vessels operating reliably throughout their service life."

Supporting customers across Australia and New Zealand is ZF's **Marine Service network**, comprising Service Partners and Service Points offering capabilities ranging from Level 1 and Level 2 repairs through to workshop-equipped facilities capable of carrying out complete transmission overhauls. Backed by ZF's global engineering expertise, the Marine Service network provides customers with specialist technical knowledge and OEM-quality service.

Additional assistance is provided by the ZF Customer Service Team via +61 (0)2 9679 555, while the **ZF Partner Finder** helps customers quickly locate authorized service providers for maintenance, repairs and ongoing support.

Together, ZF's aftermarket capabilities provide marine owners and operators with the confidence that expert support is always available to maximize uptime, extend equipment life and keep vessels operating when it matters most.

For more information, visit [www.zf.com/marine](http://www.zf.com/marine).

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Maximizing Marine Propulsion Lifespan: ZF Aftermarket's Comprehensive Support

## A Century of Service: Grand Appliance's Journey and Future

Grand Appliance, a fourth-generation family-owned business founded in 1930, has been a cornerstone of the Midwest's appliance retail and distribution scene for over 90 years. Known for its **exceptional customer service**, operational expertise, and strong supplier relationships, the company has grown into one of the largest independent appliance retailers in the region. Operating **31 retail locations and five distribution centers** across Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, and Iowa, Grand serves a diverse clientele including consumers, builders, contractors, and online shoppers.

In a significant move, Mesirow, an independent, employee-owned financial services firm, acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Grand Appliance on its sale to **R&B Wholesale Distributors**, a portfolio company of Platinum Equity. This strategic partnership aims to create new opportunities for growth while preserving the values and culture that have defined Grand for generations.

### Leadership Perspectives

**Rocky Pontikes**, Senior Managing Director and Co-Head of Mesirow Investment Banking, praised Grand's reputation as a premier appliance retailer and distributor, built through decades of exceptional service and strong brand relationships. He expressed pride in advising on this transaction and anticipates continued growth through the partnership with R&B Wholesale Distributors.

**Anish Gauri**, CEO of Grand Appliance, highlighted the company's century-long reputation for fostering strong vendor relationships, investing in great people, and delivering exceptional value. He sees this partnership as a way to open new opportunities for employees, customers, and partners while maintaining the company's core values.

**Paul Mariani**, Managing Director at Mesirow, emphasized Grand's success rooted in **exceptional customer relationships** and a strong operating platform, expressing confidence that R&B Wholesale Distributors is well-positioned to build on that foundation.

### About the Companies

**Mesirow** is an independent, employee-owned financial services firm founded in 1937, headquartered in Chicago with offices worldwide. It offers capabilities in Private Capital & Currency, Capital Markets & Investment Banking, and Advisory Services, focusing on personalized solutions and social good. The firm has completed over 350 transactions in recent years, demonstrating a proven track record in the distribution and supply chain sector.

**Grand Appliance** is a leading Midwest retailer and distributor of home appliances and consumer electronics, operating 31 locations across WI, IL, IN, and IA. Following the strategic investment from Platinum Equity, Grand partners with R&B Wholesale Distributors to form a premier national distribution platform.

**R&B Wholesale Distributors**, founded in 1968, is a leading home appliance distributor in California, Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico. Carrying over 50 brands, the company focuses on kitchen and laundry products, serving dealer, builder, and property management channels across multi-family, single-family, and light commercial markets.

This acquisition marks a milestone for Grand Appliance, ensuring its legacy of customer service and operational excellence continues under new ownership, while expanding its reach and capabilities.

Mesirow Advises Grand Appliance on its Sale to R&B Wholesale Distributors, a Portfolio Company of Platinum Equity
              
            
            
              
                Mesirow Advises Grand Appliance on its Sale to R&B Wholesale Distributors, a Portfolio Company of Platinum Equity
                PR Newswire
                CHICAGO, Aug. 13, 2026
              
              
Grand Appliance is a fourth-generation family-owned business with a long history of customer service, operational expertise and strong supplier relationships. Mesirow acted as the exclusive financial advisor on this transaction, highlighting the firm's continued success in the distribution and supply chain sector.CHICAGO, Aug. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Mesirow, an independent, employee-owned financial services firm, today announced it acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Grand Appliance ("Grand" or the "Company") on its sale to R&B Wholesale Distributors, a portfolio company of Platinum Equity.
    
                
                     
                
    
Founded in 1930, Grand Appliance is a fourth-generation family-owned business with a long history of customer service, operational expertise and strong supplier relationships. With more than 90 years of history, Grand Appliance has grown into one of the largest independent appliance retailers in the Midwest. The Company operates 31 retail locations and five distribution centers across Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, and Iowa, serving consumers, builders, contractors and online customers through its retail, distribution and e-commerce channels.Rocky Pontikes, Senior Managing Director and Co-Head of Mesirow Investment Banking, said, "Grand Appliance has established itself as one of the Midwest's premier appliance retailers and distributors through decades of exceptional customer service and strong brand relationships. We are proud to have advised the Grand team on this important transaction and look forward to the continued growth opportunities this partnership with R&B Wholesale Distributors creates.""Grand Appliance has built its reputation over nearly a century by fostering strong vendor relationships, investing in great people and delivering exceptional value to its customers. This partnership creates new opportunities for our employees, customers and partners while preserving the values and culture that have defined Grand Appliance for generations," said Anish Gauri, CEO of Grand Appliance."Grand's success is rooted in its exceptional customer relationships, strong operating platform and ability to adapt and grow across changing market environments," said Paul Mariani, Managing Director of Mesirow Investment Banking. "We are confident that R&B Wholesale Distributors is well-positioned to build on that foundation and support the Company's continued growth in the years ahead."The sale of Grand Appliance marks another successful distribution and supply chain transaction completed by Mesirow Investment Banking. In recent years, the firm has completed more than 350 transactions across its verticals. With deep industry expertise, long-standing client relationships, and a commitment to delivering tailored solutions, Mesirow continues to build a proven track record of highly successful transactions.About Mesirow Mesirow is an independent, employee-owned financial services firm founded in 1937.  Headquartered in Chicago, with offices around the world, we serve clients through a personal, custom approach to reaching financial goals and acting as a force for social good. With capabilities spanning Private Capital & Currency, Capital Markets & Investment Banking, and Advisory Services, we invest in what matters: our clients, our communities and our culture.Mesirow has been named one of the Best Places to Work in Chicago by Crain's Chicago Business multiple times and is one of Barron's Top 100 RIA firms. To learn more, visit mesirow.com, follow us on LinkedIn and subscribe to Spark, our quarterly newsletter.About Grand Appliance Grand Appliance is a leading Midwest retailer and distributor of home appliances and consumer electronics. Established in 1930, the fourth-generation business operates 31 locations across WI, IL, IN, and IA. Following a strategic investment from Platinum Equity, Grand partners with R&B Wholesale Distributors to form a premier national distribution platform. Learn more at www.grandappliance.com.About R&B Wholesale DistributorsFounded in 1968, R&B Wholesale Distributors is a leading home appliance distributor in California, Arizona, Nevada and New Mexico. The company carries over 50 brands of appliances with an emphasis on kitchen and laundry products, including refrigerators, ranges, dishwashers, and washer and dryers. R&B sells primarily through the dealer, builder and property management channels and serves the multi-family, single-family and light commercial end markets.Mediamediainquiries@mesirow.com Michael Herley | 203.308.1409Nothing contained herein constitutes an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy an interest in any Mesirow investment vehicle(s). Mesirow Financial, Inc. is not affiliated with Grand Appliance, R&B Wholesale Distributors, or Platinum Equity. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Mesirow refers to Mesirow Financial Holdings, Inc. and its divisions, subsidiaries and affiliates. | Investment Banking services offered through Mesirow Financial, Inc., Member FINRA and SIPC.Award recognition disclosures: mesirow.com/award-recognition-disclosures

                
                     
                




  View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/mesirow-advises-grand-appliance-on-its-sale-to-rb-wholesale-distributors-a-portfolio-company-of-platinum-equity-302850243.htmlSOURCE Mesirow Financial Holdings, Inc.

Mesirow Facilitates Grand Appliance's Sale to R&B Wholesale Distributors: A New Era for the Midwest Retailer

In a bold move to streamline customer service, a metro Atlanta city has rolled out a **single phone number** for all its services. This initiative aims to simplify how residents interact with local government, eliminating the need to navigate multiple departments and phone lines.

## The Power of One Number

The new system is designed to be **user-friendly and efficient**. Instead of calling different numbers for water, trash, permits, or other services, residents can now call one central number. This approach reduces confusion and ensures that calls are routed to the right department quickly.

## Benefits for Residents

- **Convenience**: One number to remember for all city services.
- **Time-saving**: No more being transferred multiple times.
- **Improved experience**: A more streamlined process that reduces frustration.

## A Step Towards Modernization

This move reflects a growing trend among municipalities to adopt **modern customer service solutions**. By centralizing communication, the city aims to improve response times and overall satisfaction. It's a practical example of how **local governments can leverage technology** to better serve their communities.

## What This Means for Customer Service Jobs

For those in the **customer service field**, this development highlights the importance of **adaptability and efficiency**. As more organizations adopt unified communication systems, customer service representatives will need to be well-versed in handling diverse queries through a single channel. This could lead to new training opportunities and a shift in how services are delivered.

## Key Takeaways

- The city's new system simplifies access to services.
- It's part of a broader trend towards **centralized customer service**.
- Customer service professionals should prepare for more integrated roles.

This initiative is a win-win for both residents and the city, setting a precedent for other municipalities to follow.

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Atlanta Suburb Revolutionizes Customer Service with a Single Phone Number

Currys, the leading electronics retailer, has successfully implemented NiCE software across its customer service operations, creating a unified view of customer interactions across all channels. This strategic move is designed to enhance the customer experience and streamline support processes.

## The Challenge: Fragmented Customer Interactions

With nearly 6 million customer contacts annually, Currys faced the challenge of managing interactions across voice, email, and social channels, often leading to a fragmented experience for customers. The need for a cohesive system was evident, especially given the complex customer journey that includes purchases, delivery, installation, repairs, and after-sales support.

## The Solution: NiCE and Concentrix Partnership

Currys partnered with Concentrix to migrate its customer service to a cloud-based platform, NiCE, which is now used by both internal and outsourced teams. This platform records, transcribes, and analyzes each interaction, providing valuable insights for continuous improvement.

## Measurable Improvements

The results have been impressive. Net Promoter Score (NPS) increased by six points during the initial migration, with some areas seeing gains of over 20 points in 18 months. Complaint volumes dropped by about half, and first-contact resolution reached nearly 80%. The contact-to-order ratio fell to 0.18, indicating fewer customer contacts per order.

## Operational Benefits

The new system has also streamlined operations. Engagement channels that previously took a long time to launch can now be deployed within weeks. Workforce management tools help Currys align staffing with seasonal demand, crucial in the consumer electronics sector.

## A Unified Customer View

Chris Stroud, Director of Customer Management Centre at Currys, highlighted the benefit of having a unified view: "With this new tool, we now have a unified view of customer interactions across channels, allowing us to resolve issues faster, personalize services, and continuously improve the experience we deliver."

## Industry Impact

This deployment positions Currys as a leader in retail customer service automation. Darren Rushworth, President of NiCE International, noted, "Currys is demonstrating how leading retailers can use customer service automation and orchestration to transform retail customer journeys."

With over 700 stores and 25,000 employees, Currys' commitment to improving customer service is clear. This initiative not only enhances customer satisfaction but also sets a benchmark for the retail industry.

The overhaul is lifting satisfaction and cutting complaints as Currys handles nearly 6 million support contacts a year across its retail network.

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