(Sharecast News) - Software provider Sopheon has inked a deal to support The Hershey Company in the digital transformation of its product innovation portfolios.Sopheon will help the iconic US confectioner integrate knowledge discovery, insights and learning for better understanding and decision making in response to business opportunities and challenges.The AIM-listed group said its award-winning innovation management software Accolade would connect existing and new processes to enable cross-functional work in order to identify and take action on portfolio growth priorities.Chief executive Andy Michuda said: "We are thrilled to be working with one of the world's most legendary CPG brands in Hershey."Sopheon has helped dozens of food and consumer goods companies harness the right data and right technology to identify and seize growth opportunities, and we are excited to help drive the same results for The Hershey Company."As of 0825 GMT, Sopheon shares had climbed 5.20% to 1,315p.