PARIS, Sept. 25, 2001 (PRIMEZONE) -- On September 20th 2001, BVRP Software (Paris Stock Exchange:BVRP) completed the acquisition of 100% of the share capital of Guildsoft Ltd., previously owned by Datawatch Corporation, the American software publisher.
Set up in 1990, Guildsoft distributes in Great Britain, and on the European continent, a large range of software solutions from Data Mining, Risk Analysis, and Data Security to Graphics Design. Based in Plymouth, in the South of England, Guildsoft had a turnover of about 2.5 ME (4 ME) for the financial year 2000/2001, and has always made a significant profit since its setting up. The purchase price amounts to 0.8 ME (1.3 ME).
According to Bruno Vanryb, Chairman and founder of BVRP Software: "This acquisition is fully part of our strategy to develop our distribution network. This acquisition, complementary to that of AB Soft in May 2001, increases our sales capacity for BVRP software solutions, by offering direct access to a large network of English distributors. By means of a reasonable investment, Guildsoft will enable us to save one or two years on our sales objectives in Great Britain, while opening new opportunities on the European continent."
"Guildsoft is a sound and profitable company," commented Robert Hagger, CEO of the Datawatch Corporation (Nasdaq:DWCH). "Guildsoft has a good retail distribution channel that is better suited to the future objectives of BVRP than to Datawatch. However, we look forward to a strong ongoing business relationship with Guildsoft who will continue to distribute our desktop software in Europe, Middle East and Africa."
About BVRP Software
With 10 subsidiaries spread over France, Great Britain and the US, the BVRP Software group, world-leading editor of communications software, is also a major supplier of personal and professional tools designed for Internet use. BVRP Software products are sold in over 100 countries through e-commerce, OEM partners and IT retailers. BVRP Software is also developing a wide Services offer, based on a strong Internet and Telecom expertise. The group currently employs around 450 employees and achieved a turnover of 35.7 ME (234.1 MF) for the 2000/01 financial year. BVRP Software is listed on the Nouveau Marche of the Paris Stock Exchange since December 1996 (Euronext:5478).