Accelrys Acquired by Dassault Systemes for $750m

By Bio-IT World Staff 

 

January 30, 2014 | Dassault Systèmes, a French company focused on Product Lifecycle Management (PLM), 3D design software and 3D digital Mock Up, announced its definitive agreement to acquire Accelrys last night in an all cash tender offer, representing a fully diluted equity value for Accelrys of approximately $750 million. Dassault Systèmes intends to acquire any shares of Accelrys not tendered into the tender offer, via a merger that will be effected as soon as possible after the closing of the tender offer.

 

Dassault Systèmes believes that a merger with Accelrys offers the unparalleled ability to deliver Scientific PLM, and that the merger will enrich Dassault Systèmes’ molecular simulation capabilities from discovery to manufacturing and regulatory, an Accelrys announcement stated. 

 

Combining with Accelrys will enrich the molecular chemistry capabilities from discovery to manufacturing and regulatory requirements of Dassault Systèmes’ formulation-based industry offerings such as life sciences, consumer packaged goods, high tech and energy, as well as advanced manufacturing industries.

 

“With Max Carnecchia and his teams, we share the same passion for enabling scientific innovation and are confident that together, leveraging the great Accelrys assets, we will deliver a unique and unmatched scientific PLM solution.” said Bernard Charlès, President and CEO, Dassault Systèmes in the press release. “The World demands a new paradigm for sustainability where chemistry, materials and biology meet. This is what the virtual universes enabled by Dassault Systèmes are delivering, capable of harmonizing products, nature and life, from imagination to industry solution experience.”

 

Max Carnecchia, President and CEO of Accelrys, stated: “This merger represents a unique opportunity to accelerate Accelrys’ journey by leveraging Dassault Systèmes’ PLM environment and 30 years of unmatched discipline in executing for improved industrial performance. With our passionate and talented teams, Accelrys is convinced that joining Dassault Systèmes will deliver transformational value to our customers by combining science-based innovation with product lifecycle management.”

 

The Board of Directors of Accelrys has unanimously approved the transaction. The transaction is expected to be completed during the second quarter of 2014, subject to Accelrys shareholders tendering a majority of Accelrys’ outstanding shares in the tender offer to be launched in the coming days, receipt of certain regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions.