Rockwell Automation to Acquire Datasweep, a Leader in Production Management Software
Acquisition Expands FactoryTalk Plant-wide Information Software Offerings
MILWAUKEE, Nov. 16, 2005 - Rockwell Automation Inc. (NYSE: ROK) today announced it has an agreement to buy Datasweep Inc., a privately held company that is a recognized leader in manufacturing production management software solutions. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Located in San Jose, Calif., Datasweep currently serves major customers in the pharmaceutical, high-tech electronics, automotive and medical device industries. ArvinMeritor, Johnson & Johnson, Lucent and Qualcomm are a few of the world-class companies that use Datasweep's production management software. The Datasweep management team and their employees will join the Rockwell Software organization. In addition, Rockwell Automation will integrate and then rebrand Datasweep Advantage software products into its newly introduced FactoryTalk integrated production management and performance suite.
"This strategic acquisition emphasizes our commitment to deliver a world-class, plant-wide information software suite that drives manufacturing excellence," said Steve
Eisenbrown, senior vice president of the company's Automation Control and Information Group. "Incorporating Datasweep technology with the FactoryTalk production disciplines enables us to help manufacturers convert day-to-day operations data into business knowledge for timely decision-making - and that means lower costs, better quality, higher productivity and improved flexibility."
"This acquisition is a key milestone in developing the FactoryTalk suite into a multi-industry, multiplant capable enterprise manufacturing software platform," said Kevin Roach, vice president, Rockwell Software. "Datasweep has a demonstrated track record for helping manufacturers dramatically improve production information tracking, visibility and control across an entire enterprise."
Vladimir Preysman, founder and CEO, Datasweep, said: "I am very excited about this business combination which will bring to market a broad range of solutions based on our joint vision. The combination of Datasweep enterprise systems with the Rockwell Automation information software and plant-wide solutions will bring unprecedented value and scale to our existing and future customers."
"The synergies are obvious here, and customers will reap the benefits," said Greg Gorbach, vice president, ARC Advisory Group. "Datasweep's products strategically extend Rockwell Automation's current offering, while Datasweep customers will benefit from Rockwell Automation's market strength."
"The dust is settling on Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) deployments and consolidations, allowing manufacturers to focus on the basics of production. In addition, the impact of broadening regulatory oversight in the United States and abroad is fueling increased spending on manufacturing IT," said Colin Masson, industry analyst from AMR Research in a June 2005 report. "Large automation vendors that have invested heavily in unifying platforms for their manufacturing software offerings are poised to affect a sea change in this market."
Editor's Note: Link to Rockwell Automation's recent FactoryTalk Strategy announcement: http://rockwellautomation.com/go/FactoryTalkStrategy.
Datasweep is a recognized leader in enterprise software solutions that help global manufacturers achieve predictable and profitable product supply through a quality-based approach to manufacturing operations. Datasweep provides extended manufacturing execution system (MES), quality assurance (QA), Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA), Complaint Handling, Business Intelligence, and RMA and Repair Manufacturing solutions. Additional information can be found at www.datasweep.com.
Rockwell Automation (NYSE: ROK), is a leading global provider of automation, power, control, and information solutions that help manufacturers achieve a competitive advantage in their businesses. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wis., U.S.A., the company employs about 21,000 people serving customers in more than 80 countries.
