Safeguard Scientifics (SFE) To Buy Acsis For $26 Million In Cash
Safeguard Scientifics, Inc., which advances the value of revenue-stage information technology and life sciences companies, announced today that it has signed an agreement to acquire Acsis, Inc., of Marlton, NJ, for approximately $26 million in cash. Acsis provides enterprise data collection solutions to global manufacturers. Its software enables manufacturers to automate plant floor/warehouse operations and take advantage of emerging technologies, including RFID. Manufacturers leverage Acsis solutions to improve visibility of goods throughout their supply chains, ultimately resulting in increased revenues and reduced costs.
Spending on enterprise data collection software and services has been growing significantly and Acsis believes it currently exceeds $700 million annually. Recent mandates from major national retailers as well as government agencies have prompted manufacturers to upgrade their existing data collection infrastructure with RFID technology.
“Today’s announcement reflects our commitment to partnering with high growth, entrepreneurial companies,” said Peter J. Boni, President and Chief Executive Officer of Safeguard. “Acsis is a strong competitor with deep domain expertise and a high quality customer base.”
John A. Loftus, Safeguard’s Executive Vice President and Managing Director of Information Technology, said, “As a trusted partner to more than 75 Tier 1 manufacturers, Acsis is an ideal partner to help its customers gain value from the current and next generation of data collection technology. We look forward to helping Acsis expand its market presence and build a solid foundation for continued growth.”
Acsis generated revenues of more than $20 million in 2004, and in the first nine months of 2005 had revenues of approximately $17 million. Founded in 1996, Acsis was one of the first software vendors to facilitate the control and integration of plant floor and warehouse devices with SAP’s ERP software. The company employs approximately 90 people.
Steven Selfridge, President and Chief Executive Officer of Acsis, said, “With Safeguard’s support, we are dedicated to meeting the growing demand for device integration and enterprise data collection. Our employees are enthusiastic about Acsis becoming a Safeguard partner company and accelerating the growth of our business.”
The transaction is expected to close on or before December 31, 2005, and is subject to customary closing conditions. Acsis’ operating results are not expected to materially affect Safeguard’s 2005 financial results.
About Safeguard
Safeguard Scientifics, Inc. (NYSE:SFE – News) advances the value of revenue-stage information technology and life sciences companies. Safeguard provides growth capital as well as a range of strategic, operating and management resources to help its partner companies build value in their businesses. Safeguard participates in expansion financings, management buyouts, recapitalizations, industry consolidations and early-stage financings. For more information about Safeguard, visit www.safeguard.com
