Fairfax-owned Trade Me is all set to acquire online software provider BookIt, based in Dunedin, under a deal subject to some conditions. BookIt, listed on the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 for the Asia Pacific region, is specialized in offering booking and payment processing tools for tourism operators in New Zealand.

Trade Me hopes that the acquisition would help to strengthen its Travelbug and reseller network through broader access to its products and utilities. BookIt co-founder Ian Taylor said that its search has been completed by finding a partner like Trade Me. It would now use its full potential by offering simplified user friendly applications to the consumers by integrating suppliers and resellers.

Trade Me's head of travel Alex Fala said, "Users of Travelbug and our reseller network will be able to choose from a deeper selection of accommodation and a broader range of products, including activities like skiing and sightseeing tours. Suppliers to BookIt and Trade Me will be from a larger audience."

Meanwhile, Trade Me has announced to absorb three staff members of Booklt into its operation and remaining would be introduced in line with the growth of business.