Every year, HR professionals from across the UK head to CIPD ACE to explore the latest HR software, tools, and technology shaping the future of work. Whether you’re attending to streamline HR admin, improve workforce visibility, or simply compare what’s new on the market, knowing which vendors to visit can make all the difference.
This guide breaks down the best HR software exhibitors at CIPD ACE 2025, from global enterprise systems to people-first platforms and innovative newcomers. We’ve highlighted what each does best, what to look out for, and which systems are worth your time on the exhibition floor.
If you’re looking for an all-in-one HR solution that combines core HR, rota scheduling, time & attendance, and compliance management in one easy-to-use platform, Evalu-8 HR should be at the top of your list.
Helpful Summary
Overview:
This blog explores the top 5 HR software vendors exhibiting at CIPD ACE 2025, from enterprise platforms to people-focused tools and all-in-one solutions. Whether you’re attending to compare HR systems, streamline people management, or upgrade your current setup, this guide highlights the key players to visit. Evalu-8 HR stands out as the most complete, UK-built HR platform designed for growing businesses that want everything in one place HR, ROTAs, and Time & Attendance.
Why Trust Us:
Evalu-8 HR is a UK-built, HR-first platform created for SMEs and mid-sized organisations. Unlike systems that focus purely on payroll or performance, Evalu-8 puts practical workforce management at its core. With integrated rota scheduling, time & attendance, document management, and employee self-service all supported by unlimited UK-based support, it’s designed to simplify your daily admin while improving visibility and compliance.
Why It Matters:
If you’re attending CIPD ACE to find HR software that actually works for the way you manage people, this list is for you. Many systems promise to do it all, but few combine usability, scalability, and cost-effectiveness in one package. Evalu-8 HR provides everything you need to manage your workforce efficiently, stay compliant, and grow with confidence without enterprise-level complexity or price tags.
Evalu-8 HR: Best all-in-one platform
Evalu-8 HR is the must-see HR software at CIPD ACE
Built in the UK, designed for real teams, and trusted by organisations that want powerful HR, ROTA, and Time & Attendance in one place without the enterprise price tag.
While other platforms focus on payroll or performance, Evalu-8 is built for the day-to-day. Create rotas, track attendance, manage training, leave, and compliance all from one simple, modular system that actually makes HR easier.
For growing SMEs and mid-sized organisations, it’s the perfect mix of power, simplicity, and value.
Visit us at stand B1 and see why more UK businesses are choosing Evalu-8 HR.
Core features
HR Management: Centralise employee records, contracts, and documents with smart expiry alerts and digital signatures.
Leave & Absence: Manage holidays, sickness, and TOIL with custom approval flows and live reporting.
Rota Scheduling: Build shift patterns and rotas in minutes, with drag-and-drop editing and rules to manage overtime.
Time & Attendance: Track attendance through digital clock-ins, biometric devices, or geolocation check-ins.
Document Management: Store, share, and track HR files with version control and read acknowledgements.
Training Management: Assign, track, and report on staff training and compliance across departments.
Advanced features
Fatigue & Working Pattern Analysis: Automatically monitor working hours and rest periods to identify fatigue risk.
Custom Dashboards & Advanced Reporting: Generate visual insights across HR, ROTA, and compliance data for better decision-making.
Integrated Task Management: Assign actions and track progress directly within employee or compliance records.
Mobile App: Give staff easy access to view rotas, book leave, and update information on the go.
GDPR & Right-to-Work Compliance: Built-in checks and expiry notifications keep records fully compliant.
Unlimited UK Support: Direct access to real people who understand UK employment law and best practice.
Explore Evalu-8 HR
What Customers Say About Evalu-8 HR
It is really intuitive and easy to use. They seem to have thought of everything with this software as everything is in one package, with one place to log in. I can easily keep my details up to date, book holiday, see my shifts, receive and sign documents and view my training record.
Training is very thorough, with recordings sent on request for reference Service is excellent, they get back to you promptly. Great platform, that's customisable for the business needs. Competitively priced.
Pricing
Evalu-8 HR starts at £2.50 per employee, per month for the Lite plan, ideal for small businesses that want HR essentials without the extras.
Full HR + Rota + Time & Attendance packages are priced transparently, with no hidden fees and unlimited support included.
Custom packages are available for larger or multi-site organisations.
Pros & cons of Evalu-8 HR
Pros:
- UK-built and fully GDPR-compliant
- Combines HR, ROTAs, and T&A in one system
- Easy to use and quick to deploy
- Transparent, affordable pricing
- Unlimited UK-based support
Cons:
- No built-in payroll (but integrates with leading UK providers)
- More suited to SMEs and mid-sized businesses than global enterprises
HiBob
HiBob, known simply as Bob, is a modern HR platform built around culture, engagement, and employee experience. It’s designed for companies that value community and feedback as much as compliance. Its interface is clean and intuitive, and it integrates well with other HR tools, but it’s primarily a “people and culture” system, not an operational one.
Core features
Employee database: Stores contracts, policies, and personal information.
Absence & holiday management: Simple leave request and approval system with shared calendars.
Performance management: Appraisal and feedback tools for small teams.
Document management: Upload and share policies and contracts.
Employee self-service: Staff can update details and request leave.
Advanced features
Compensation Management: Plan salary reviews and bonuses across teams.
Integrations: Works with Slack, Teams, and a range of payroll and ATS tools.
Global HR Support: Handles multiple locations and currencies for international teams.
Constraints and functionality gaps
No native rota or time-tracking tools
Fatigue monitoring, working pattern management, and compliance alerts not included
Reporting focuses on engagement rather than operational metrics
Customisation can be limited without enterprise plans
Pricing
Pricing is quote-based and generally aimed at mid-market and enterprise clients. Expect higher per-user costs compared with SME-focused platforms.
Pros & cons of Breathe HR
Pros:
- Excellent user experience and engagement tools
- Attractive, intuitive interface
- Ideal for culture-driven businesses
Cons:
- Limited for shift or site-based teams
- No native rota or T&A functionality
- Costly for smaller organisations
Cezanne HR
Cezanne HR is a comprehensive, UK-developed platform that supports complex organisational structures and international operations. Its modular setup gives HR teams strong control and configuration options. It’s reliable and feature-rich, but requires more admin effort and configuration than plug-and-play systems.
Core features
Central HR database with configurable workflows
Absence, performance, and document management
Recruitment and onboarding modules
Reporting dashboards and data export tools
Customisable approval chains
Advanced features
International HR support (multi-currency, multi-language)
Integration with payroll and benefits systems
Advanced access controls and audit trails
Constraints and functionality gaps
No built-in rota scheduling or fatigue analysis
Complex setup process that requires HR system knowledge
Limited automation for day-to-day workforce management
User interface feels dated compared to newer systems
Pricing
Module-based pricing with custom quotes. Cost increases as features and user counts grow, often exceeding typical SME budgets.
Pros & cons of Factorial HR
Pros:
- Deep functionality and scalability
- UK-built with strong compliance credentials
- Flexible modular approach
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve for smaller teams
- No combined HR + ROTA + T&A option
- Implementation can take longer
Hireful
Hireful is a UK-based recruitment platform designed to simplify hiring and candidate management. It’s ideal for organisations with regular recruitment needs, providing strong ATS capabilities and great candidate experience features. However, it’s not a full HR suite, it stops at onboarding.
Core features
Applicant tracking and candidate pipeline management
Job advert distribution to multiple job boards
Branded career pages
Interview scheduling and communication tools
Simple reporting for time-to-hire and candidate sources
Advanced features
Inclusive hiring tools promoting fair recruitment
Talent pool management
Optional recruitment campaign management services
Constraints and functionality gaps
No HR core, rota, or attendance modules
Lacks compliance, training, and document tracking tools
No native integrations for absence or time management
Limited scalability for wider HR processes
Pricing
Hireful pricing is modular and depends on user volume and services. Competitive for SMEs, but not designed to replace HR software.
Pros & cons of Employment Hero
Pros:
- Excellent for streamlining recruitment
- UK-based with strong support and resources
- Easy for non-technical users
Cons:
- Recruitmen focused platform
- Lacks any workforce or compliance functionality
- Requires integration with other HR tools
Sage HR
Part of the Sage suite, Sage HR is a straightforward HR platform that fits naturally alongside Sage accounting and payroll products. It provides essential HR management tools for SMEs, but its add-on pricing model and limited workforce features make it less cost-effective for companies needing full visibility across HR and scheduling.
Core Features
Centralised employee database
Leave and absence management
Performance review tracking
Timesheet management
Expense management and approvals
Advanced Features
Payroll integration with Sage Business Cloud Payroll
Basic automation for routine HR tasks
Mobile app for employee self-service
Constraints and Functionality Gaps
No integrated rota builder or shift scheduling
Limited reporting compared to advanced systems
Fatigue monitoring, asset tracking, and compliance management unavailable
Add-on pricing quickly increases overall cost
Lacks the scalability and flexibility of all-in-one systems
Pricing
Starting from around £4–£5 per user/month, with extra modules charged separately. Costs rise as functionality expands.
Pros & Cons of Cezanne HR
Pros
- Well-known brand with trusted payroll integration
- Simple for smaller businesses to adopt
- Familiar interface for Sage accounting users
Cons
- Add-on pricing model can become expensive
- Limited customisation or advanced workforce tools
Other Vendors You’ll Find at CIPD ACE 2025
Not every exhibitor at CIPD ACE offers full HR functionality many focus on one area, such as recruitment, payroll, or learning. Here’s a quick look at the rest of the HR tech vendors you’ll find at the event.
Moorepay (Payroll & HR Services)
Well-known for outsourced payroll and compliance support. Offers basic HR features, but primarily a payroll-first solution.
Certn (Background Screening)
Global background-checking platform ideal for high-volume or regulated industries needing quick, compliant pre-employment verification.
Frontier Software (Enterprise HR & Payroll)
Robust enterprise system used by large organisations and the public sector; powerful, but complex for SMEs.
Heka (Employee Wellbeing & Perks)
Focused on engagement and employee wellbeing through personalised benefit schemes rather than HR operations.
Humanforce (Workforce Management)
Workforce scheduling and attendance tracking for hospitality, care, and retail sectors. Strong on shifts, lighter on HR depth.
Keyzo (Communication & Training)
Provides internal communication and digital training tools, mainly used in logistics and transport industries.
PLD (Learning & Development)
Custom learning platforms to manage training and compliance works best as an L&D add-on to a core HR system.
Realise HR (HR Consultancy & Support)
Blends consultancy and HR software services, helping organisations with strategy, setup, and compliance guidance.
Rippling (Global HR & IT Management)
Combines HR, payroll, and device management for distributed teams. Strong for global tech firms, less suited to SMEs.
Softworks (Time & Attendance)
Solid T&A and compliance tracking, but limited HR and rota functionality compared with integrated platforms.
Talos360 (Recruitment & Employee Experience)
UK recruitment and engagement software designed to improve candidate attraction and employee retention.
TerryBerry (Recognition & Rewards)
Employee reward and recognition platform that integrates with HR tools but doesn’t manage core HR processes.
Think Learning (Learning Management System)
Widely used in healthcare and public sectors for training and compliance, not a full HR suite.
Veremark (Background Checks & Credentialing)
Automated background verification for recruiters managing high-volume or compliance-critical hires.
Vetting Gateway (Security Vetting & ID Verification)
Pre-employment vetting solution tailored for aviation, security, and defence industries.
Zelt (Modern HR & Payroll)
Contemporary HR platform with built-in payroll and device management. Sleek design, but limited workforce management features.
Zinc (Blockchain-Based Background Checks)
Uses blockchain to deliver secure, tamper-proof background verification during recruitment.
Overview: The Best HR Software at CIPD ACE 2025
Comprehensive HR Platforms (Best for Mid-to-Large Organisations)
These platforms offer extensive functionality with modules for performance, payroll, and workforce management. They’re ideal for complex organisations but often come with high setup costs and long implementation times.
Evalu-8 HR is the UK-built all-in-one HR software that puts people management first. From HR records and training to ROTAs, time & attendance, and performance. Everything runs from one simple, powerful system. Unlike complex, expensive platforms, Evalu-8 HR is built for real teams: easy to use, fully supported by real people in Manchester, and designed to grow with your organisation. If you’re at CIPD ACE 2025, this is the HR software you don’t want to miss.
Cezanne HR: A configurable UK-based system with strong enterprise capabilities, suited to larger organisations but often too resource-heavy for SMEs.
Dayforce: A global HCM platform offering deep payroll and compliance tools, though its cost and complexity can be excessive for smaller businesses.
Integrated & Flexible Solutions (Ideal for Small-to-Midsize Businesses)
These systems balance ease of use with practical functionality. They give growing organisations the HR essentials and, in some cases, advanced workforce tools without the enterprise-level bloat.
Evalu-8 HR Software replaces multiple systems, spreadsheets, and scattered data with one powerful, all-in-one platform. HR records, training, leave, time & attendance, and ROTAs all connect seamlessly, giving you a single source of truth for your people and processes. No switching between tools, no data silos, just everything you need to manage your workforce in one place. Simple, connected, and built for growing UK businesses.
HiBob: Modern and engagement-led, focused on people experience and culture. Excellent UI but lacks built-in rota or time tracking functionality.
Sage HR: Simple and accessible for smaller teams, particularly those already using Sage Payroll. However, functionality is limited to core HR and absence tracking.
Specialist & Simpler HR Tools
These tools focus on one area of HR, such as recruitment or onboarding, and work best when combined with another system. They’re lightweight and affordable, but rarely meet full HR or compliance requirements on their own.
Evalu-8 HR: Even at its entry level, offers more than just core HR, including rotas, time & attendance, and compliance tools, helping businesses outgrow spreadsheets without outgrowing their software.
Hireful: Excellent for recruitment and candidate management, but stops short of wider HR functionality.
Certn, Veremark & Vetting Gateway: Focused on pre-employment checks and background screening, ideal as bolt-ons rather than all-in-one systems.
How to Choose the Right HR Software at CIPD ACE 2025
Clarify Your Priorities: Decide if you need a full HR suite or a focused tool for payroll, recruitment, or engagement.
Think Long-Term: Lightweight systems might meet immediate needs, but can’t scale with your workforce.
Check Workforce Features: For UK businesses, rota scheduling, time tracking, and compliance should come as standard, not extras.
Balance Cost & Depth: Look for transparent pricing that scales with your business, not your frustration.
Evalu-8 HR is the standout option across every category, simple enough for small teams, flexible enough for growing organisations, and powerful enough to handle rota scheduling, time tracking, and compliance in one affordable, UK-built platform.
Final thoughts
CIPD ACE 2025 brings together some of the most recognised HR software providers in the UK, from global enterprise platforms and payroll specialists to niche recruitment and wellbeing tools. Each system offers something different, whether it’s engagement, compliance, or automation.
But for organisations that need a complete, practical HR system, one that manages people, time, attendance, and compliance in one place, Evalu-8 HR stands out.
It combines the flexibility of modern HR software with the depth of workforce management usually reserved for enterprise systems. Built in the UK, it’s designed for growing organisations that want visibility, control, and simplicity without unnecessary complexity or cost.
If you’re attending CIPD ACE 2025 and want to see what practical, scalable HR software looks like, make sure Evalu-8 HR is at the top of your list.
See it live, ask questions, and discover how it can simplify the way your business manages its people.
Visit Evalu-8 HR at stand B1
FAQs
CIPD ACE (Annual Conference & Exhibition) is the UK’s biggest HR and people management event, bringing together HR professionals, business leaders, and technology providers. It’s where you can explore the latest software, attend expert sessions, and meet vendors shaping the future of HR.
Start by defining your organisation’s biggest pain points, whether that’s managing staff rotas, tracking absence, or streamlining compliance. Then look for platforms that address those needs without unnecessary complexity. If you want a single, UK-built solution that does it all, Evalu-8 HR should be on your shortlist.
While many systems specialise in one area like payroll, engagement, or learning, Evalu-8 HR combines everything into one platform. It includes HR management, rota scheduling, time & attendance, training tracking, and document control, all supported by unlimited UK-based support.
Yes. Evalu-8 HR is modular and scalable, meaning it grows with your business. Smaller companies can start with the Lite plan (£2.50 per employee per month), while larger organisations can add advanced features like fatigue monitoring, compliance dashboards, and multi-site visibility
Absolutely. You can visit the Evalu-8 HR stand (B1) for a chat with our friendly team, ask questions, and see how it compares with other systems.
