Sage's revenues and pre-tax profits leaped during 2005/2006, however, a large proportion of the growth was delivered by new acquisitions.

Revenues grew to £935.6m from £766.4m for the year ended 30 September 2006, but new acquisitions represented £87.6m of growth.

Pre-tax profits after amortisation charges rose by 14% to £221.2m. Pre-acquisition revenues grew sharply in mainland Europe, to £253.2m from £203.8m.

Purchases made during the last year include French management software provider Adonix and US-based merchant services business Verus for £184m.

'This has been an exciting year for Sage with a number of significant acquisitions broadening both the products and services we offer to SMEs,' said Sage chief executive Paul Walker.

'We have reported strong organic growth in our business, demonstrating the strength and potential of our existing customer base.'

Further reading:

Sage makes £20m UK acquisition

Sage acquires US firm for £184m

Sage ponders £500m war chest