Tag: Venture Capital Funding and Investments in Geo/LBS

Zillow Announces Acquisition of Trulia for $3.5 Billion in Stock

Combination of companies sets stage to offer more real estate tools and services that empower consumers and drive more business for real estate professionals

Continue reading “Zillow Announces Acquisition of Trulia for $3.5 Billion in Stock”

Getmapping Acquires Promap Civil Engineering

Hartley Wintney, UK, July 22nd 2014 – As part of its continued expansion into Africa, Getmapping has acquired Promap Civil Engineering Surveys (Pty) Ltd, based in Pretoria. Promap is a leading supplier of aerial and ground survey services across Southern Africa.
The acquisition complements Getmapping’s existing wholly owned African subsidiary, Geosense, by increasing the aerial LiDAR survey capacity within the group. The acquisition of Promap also adds a fixed-wing survey aircraft plus large format LiDAR and an established ground survey team to the group’s capabilities. 
Under the new arrangements, Geosense’s offices in Centurion will be expanded to accommodate additional production and sales resources. The acquisition increases the number of employees based in Centurion to 19. The Centurion office will remain Geosense’s centre of helicopter-based flight operations and the focus of the company’s extensive LiDAR processing capability. All fixed wing operations and the ground survey team will continue to work out of Pretoria as Promap Civil Engineering Surveys. 
The Getmapping Group now has four offices in Africa – Cape Town, Centurion, Pretoria and Nairobi. 
“The acquisition of Promap considerably increases our capacity and reach across Africa,” said Dave Horner, Managing Director of Getmapping. “Promap has been operating since 1996 and has extensive experience in Southern Africa, which will help us to expand our market reach. It also adds fixed wing aerial and ground survey services to our in-house capabilities. We now provide a complete survey solution with a mix of helicopter, fixed wing and ground survey, and this acquisition increases both our capability and capacity. We now have a large and experienced team in place to take our South African operations to the next level,” continued Horner.
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About Getmapping Plc
Getmapping Plc is a leading provider of aerial photography, LiDAR, digital mapping and web based services. Getmapping has offices in Hartley Wintney, UK, Cape Town, Centurion and Pretoria in South Africa, and Nairobi, Kenya. 
Getmapping was the first company to have up to date nationwide aerial coverage of Britain and pioneered online delivery of aerial photography to business and the public at large. A reseller of professional mapping, oblique photography, height data, OS maps and third party aerial photography, Getmapping services a wide variety of markets including press and media, local authorities and central government, property and construction, mining, environmental consultants and the public. It also provides a number of value added mapping products and services tailored to specific client needs including data hosting, online data delivery and web-based GIS. A pioneer of many online products through its website, Getmapping is the only company currently re-flying the whole of the UK at resolutions from 5cm to 25cm 

 

Hexagon acquires Vero Software

Hexagon AB, a leading global provider of design, measurement and visualisation technologies, announced today the acquisition of Vero Software, a world leader in Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software.

Vero Software is a UK-based software company with a strong brand and proven customer satisfaction track record. Their software aids the design and manufacturing process with solutions for programming and controlling machine tools, addressing the rising challenge of achieving manufacturing efficiencies with high-quality output.

Several well-known brands in Vero Software’s portfolio include Alphacam, Cabinet Vision, Edgecam, Radan, SURFCAM, VISI, and WorkNC. The company has large market coverage with offices in the UK, Germany, Italy, France, Japan, USA, Brazil, Netherlands, China, Korea, Spain and India supplying products to more than 45 countries through its wholly owned subsidiaries and reseller network.

The acquisition strengthens Hexagon’s software offerings, providing the means to close the gap of making quality data fully actionable by extending the reach of the newly developed MMS (metrology planning software) to include CAM (manufacturing planning software).

“Together with its unique suite of manufacturing software solutions, Vero Software has the expertise, knowledge and resources to deliver even higher levels of productivity to our customers,” said Hexagon President and CEO Ola Rollén. “Leveraging our global footprint, the synergies from our combined technologies will advance our strategy, supporting the growing need to integrate all data and processes across the manufacturing lifecycle.”

Vero Software will be fully consolidated as of August 2014 (closing being subject to regulatory approval) and will positively contribute to Hexagon’s earnings. The company’s turnover for 2013 amounted to approximately 80 million EUR.

For further information please contact:
Carl Gustafsson, Investor Relations Manager, Hexagon AB, 
46 8 601 26 27, ir@hexagon.com

Kristin Christensen, Vice President, Corporate Communications, Hexagon AB,
 1 404 554 0972, media@hexagon.com

Hexagon (NASDAQ OMX Stockholm: HEXA B) is a leading global provider of design, measurement and visualisation technologies. Our customers can design, measure and position objects, and process and present data, to stay one step ahead of a changing world. Hexagon’s solutions increase productivity, enhance quality and allow for faster, better operational decisions, saving time, money and resources. Hexagon has more than 14,000 employees in over 40 countries and net sales of about 2,400 MEUR. Our products are used in a broad range of industries including surveying, power and energy, aerospace and defence, construction, safety and security, automotive and manufacturing. Learn more at www.hexagon.com.

US Indoor LBS Market 2014-2018 with Apple, Google, HERE, Micello, & Shopkick Dominating

Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/74thw8/indoor_lbs_market) has announced the addition of the "Indoor LBS Market in the US 2014-2018 with Apple, Google, HERE, Micello, & Shopkick Dominating" report to their offering.

“Indoor LBS Market in the US 2014-2018 with Apple, Google, HERE, Micello, & Shopkick Dominating”

The Location-based Search and Advertising market in the US will grow at a CAGR of 44.87% to 2018

The number of venues covered by indoor LBS map providers is increasing at a rapid pace over the past few years. The segment is witnessing large competition in the US market. In addition, due to the presence of large players such as Google and HERE as well as innovative map platform providers, the market competition is intensifying. The major players in the US, Google, Point Inside, Micello, FastMall, and HERE, cumulatively covered more than 25,000 venues in the US. As the demand for indoor LBS is increasing, and more business organizations are adopting indoor LBS, the number of venues in the US is expected to increase to almost 200,000 by 2016. Thus, the increasing availability of indoor venue maps is an emerging trend that could fuel the growth of the market during the forecast period.

According to the report, one of the main drivers in this market is the increased use of indoor LBS by consumers. Most people in the US spend more than 80 percent of their daily time indoors. In addition, more than 85 percent of mobile data in the US is generated from indoor locations. Advancements in positioning technology and survey methodology have made it easy to determine the location of a smart device. In addition, personal communication devices such as smartphones and tablets enable the use of indoor positioning through local wireless networks. Hence, consumers have started using indoor LBS in shopping malls, multiplexes, universities, campuses, and airports.

Further, the report states that one of the major challenges in this market is the determination of the location in indoor environments. Indoors, the accuracy of the location of the user is expected to be very high. However, the operation of GPS technology is very limited in an indoor environment. In addition, because of challenges in the indoor environment, it is difficult to determine the location of the user using Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technology. This is because most indoor places are multi-floor and unevenly structured.

Key Vendors

  • Apple, Inc.
  • Google, Inc.
  • HERE
  • Micello, Inc.
  • Shopkick, Inc.

The study was conducted using an objective combination of primary and secondary information including inputs from key participants in the industry. The report contains a comprehensive market and vendor landscape in addition to a SWOT analysis of the key vendors.

Key Topics Covered:

  1. Executive Summary
  2. List of Abbreviations
  3. Scope of the Report
  4. Market Research Methodology
  5. Introduction
  6. Market Landscape
  7. Market Segmentation by Application
  8. Buying Criteria
  9. Market Growth Drivers
  10. Drivers and their Impact
  11. Market Challenges
  12. Impact of Drivers and Challenges
  13. Market Trends
  14. Trends and their Impact
  15. Vendor Landscape
  16. Key Vendor Analysis

For more information visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/74thw8/indoor_lbs_market

 

Hexagon signs an agreement to acquire Arvus, manufacturer of precision agriculture solutions

Hexagon AB, a leading global provider of design, measurement and visualisation technologies, has signed an agreement to acquire Arvus, a manufacturer of precision agriculture solutions for closer, more site-specific management of the factors affecting crop production. This means different parts of a field can be managed separately, where the application of essential nutrients and various other inputs can be fine-tuned through the use of sensors and GPS technologies.

Headquartered in Florianópolis, Brazil, Arvus has partners in the most important agricultural borders of Brazil. The company has a portfolio of high-end equipment and software products designed specifically for precision farming and the forestry industry. The solutions are supported through personalised technical assistance by Arvus employees.

The acquisition of Arvus is a strategic step in the further development of the Smart Agriculture solution from Hexagon Solutions. Strong in the South American sugarcane, forestry and grain markets, Arvus provides Hexagon the channels to expand its agriculture portfolio and footprint. Arvus’ offerings complement Hexagon’s machine control solutions, providing guidance, real-time fleet management, and field-to-office data analytics applications as well as various hardware and software solution integration opportunities. 

“Together with our existing footprint in the agriculture industry, the acquisition of Arvus will help lead the way for further product and market development, enabling Hexagon to offer a comprehensive solution for increasing productivity, reducing waste and optimising processes and resources”, said Hexagon President and CEO Ola Rollén.

The transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions. Closing is expected no later than end of May 2014. The acquisition will have no significant impact on Hexagon’s earnings.

For further information please contact:
Carl Gustafsson, Investor Relations Manager, Hexagon AB, 
46 8 601 26 27, ir@hexagon.com

Kristin Christensen, Vice President, Corporate Communications, Hexagon AB,
 1 404 554 0972, media@hexagon.com

Hexagon (NASDAQ OMX Stockholm: HEXA B) is a leading global provider of design, measurement and visualisation technologies. Our customers can design, measure and position objects, and process and present data, to stay one step ahead of a changing world. Hexagon’s solutions increase productivity, enhance quality and allow for faster, better operational decisions, saving time, money and resources. Hexagon has more than 14,000 employees in over 40 countries and net sales of about 2,400 MEUR. Our products are used in a broad range of industries including surveying, power and energy, aerospace and defence, construction, safety and security, automotive and manufacturing. Learn more at www.hexagon.com.

 

Trimble Acquires Assets of European Engineering and Construction Accessories Company

SUNNYVALE, Calif., April 2, 2014—Trimble (NASDAQ: TRMB) announced today it has acquired the assets of privately-held GeoDesy and GeoDesy Free Space Optics (FSO) of Budapest, Hungary. GeoDesy is a European engineering and development company focused on delivering accessories for the geomatics, surveying, mapping and construction industries. Financial terms were not disclosed.

GeoDesy designs, manufactures and distributes accessories for surveying instruments, lasers, robotics, mapping and Global Satellite Navigation System (GNSS) systems, which includes products such as tripods, prism poles, tribaches, brackets and adapters. Along with offering company-branded accessories, GeoDesy also offers regional custom-made solutions.

GeoDesy FSO designs, manufactures and distributes laser-based free space optical communication devices. FSO is a line-of-sight technology that uses invisible beams of infrared light to provide very-high optical bandwidth connections that can send and receive voice, video, and data information for outdoor communications. This technology is typically deployed where traditional communication technologies may be challenging such as large construction sites, remote oil fields, dense urban environments, railways and mining locations. FSO is a technology of choice when high-speed data rates, integrity and data security are essential to success.

GeoDesy complements Trimble’s current portfolio of products acquired from SECO and Crain Enterprises in 2008. The purchase of GeoDesy allows Trimble to provide the necessary products and support services that can be offered as part of its positioning solutions in the engineering and construction markets. GeoDesy offers a unique perspective in the professional surveying market with over 130 years of continued innovation. In addition, GeoDesy will be able to leverage established distribution channels throughout the world.

"With the acquisition of GeoDesy, we have strengthened our ability to serve our customers in the European, Middle Eastern and African regions," said Henry Munoz, business area director of Trimble Interconnect Solutions. “Our strategy is to combine our global design capabilities with regional innovation and deliver these solutions through localized manufacturing and distribution centers.”

“We have worked closely with Trimble for over 13 years and we believe the acquisition is an ideal strategic fit. The acquisition strengthens our industry leadership position in Europe and gives us access to further opportunities by leveraging Trimble’s worldwide distribution network,” said Peter Szabo, managing director of GeoDesy.

GeoDesy will be part of Trimble’s Engineering and Construction segment.

About GeoDesy and GeoDesy FSO

Established in 1876 and located in Budapest Hungary, GeoDesy is a market leader in the design, production and distribution of surveying instruments, precision mechanic optical components and accessories. GeoDesy FSO designs and produces laser-based free space optical communication devices.

For more information, visit:  http://geodesy.hu/en.

About Trimble

Trimble applies technology to make field and mobile workers in businesses and government significantly more productive. Solutions are focused on applications requiring position or location—including surveying, construction, agriculture, fleet and asset management, public safety and mapping. In addition to utilizing positioning technologies, such as GPS, lasers and optics, Trimble solutions may include software content specific to the needs of the user. Wireless technologies are utilized to deliver the solution to the user and to ensure a tight coupling of the field and the back office. Founded in 1978, Trimble is headquartered in Sunnyvale, Calif.

For more information, visit:  www.trimble.com.

 

Exelis services company spin-off to be named Vectrus

MCLEAN, Va.—Apr. 1, 2014— Exelis (NYSE: XLS) announced today that the new publicly traded military and government services company that will result from the planned spin-off will be named Vectrus. Exelis previously announced the planned spinoff of its Mission Systems division, currently part of the company’s Information and Technical Services segment, in December 2013.

Vectrus is a blended name derived from the words Vector and Trust. Vector represents strong forward direction, while Trust represents the essence of the new company’s commitment to its customers. A comprehensive roll-out of the new brand will take place at the completion of the spin-off.

"We are pleased to introduce Vectrus today," said Dave Melcher, president and chief executive officer of Exelis. "While the brand will be new to the market, the experienced Vectrus team will continue to build on a legacy of delivering infrastructure asset management, logistics and supply chain management services, as well as information technology and network communication services, to U.S. government customers worldwide."

As a pure-play services provider, Vectrus will capitalize on more than 50 years’ experience in the services market. With nearly 7,000 employees currently operating in more than 100 locations in 18 countries, Vectrus is well-positioned to continue to deliver its broad range of capabilities as an independent entity.

Following completion of the spin-off, Exelis will have greater focus on its four strategic growth platforms: Critical Networks, ISR & Analytics, Electronic Warfare, and Aerostructures, as well as continue to capitalize on its mature business areas of networked communications and night vision. The transaction is intended to be tax-free to Exelis and its shareholders and is expected to be completed by the summer of 2014, subject to final approval of the board of directors of Exelis. Additional information on the spin-off can be found at www.exelisinc.com/ transformation.

About Exelis

Exelis is a diversified, top-tier global aerospace, defense, information and services company that leverages a 50-year legacy of deep customer knowledge and technical expertise to deliver affordable, mission-critical solutions for global customers. We are a leader in positioning and navigation, sensors, air traffic management solutions, image processing and distribution, communications and information systems; and focused on strategic growth in the areas of critical networks, ISR and analytics, electronic warfare and composite aerostructures. Headquartered in McLean, Va., Exelis employs about 17,000 people and generated 2013 sales of $4.8 billion. For more information, visit our website at www.exelisinc.com or connect with us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube

 

Intermap Technologies Announces US$5.0 Million Convertible Debt Financing

Expansion capital accelerates the development and market introduction of Intermap’s RiskPro™ and GeoPro™ 3D Business Intelligence software products Continue reading “Intermap Technologies Announces US$5.0 Million Convertible Debt Financing”

Sputnik Enterprises Executes Agreements to Acquire Technology Companies

ORLANDO, Fla.—- Sputnik Enterprises, Inc., OTCBB SPNI, announced today that it has reached definitive agreements with Terra Imaging, LLC, iCaddy, and iScore Golf, LLC to acquire the technology firms in a stock exchange transaction whereby all of the companies acquired will become wholly owned subsidiaries of Sputnik Enterprises, Inc.

The closing of the transactions is subject to due diligence by all parties, and the completion and delivery of audit reports by a member in good standing of the PCAOB. Reference is made to the Agreements for the Exchange of Common Stock between Sputnik and the firms filed as exhibits to the 8K filing of Sputnik at www.sec.gov for detailed terms and conditions of the acquisitions. The closing of the transactions is scheduled for February 12, 2014.

About Terra Imaging, LLC – www.terraimaging.com – www.3dgolfcourse.com

Terra Imaging is based in La Jolla, California, emphasizing in the geospatial integration of 3D mapping and data technologies into various 3D Golf Course products to include: Golf Cart GPS, Mobile Golf GPS and 3D Golf Gaming and Golf Simulation Technologies for mobile, web, console and golf simulator systems

Terra’s 3D Golf Course products include:

  • 3D CartPro
    • Golf cart navigation system, implementing patented and proprietary 3D technology, integrating geospatial, 3D imagery, terrain and GPS data for advanced golf visualization and strategy.
  • 3D MobilePro
    • Smaller, mobile version, implementing patented 3D technology with an AR (Augmented Reality) benefit and 3D visualization capabilities.
  • Resort Enterprise
    • Complete CartPro/MobilePro/GIS (Geographic Information Systems) management software for cart, vehicle, asset monitoring; hydrology, utilities and landscape management features.
  • Resort GPS – MSS (Mountain Safety Systems)
    • Mobile GPS technologies focused on guest, vehicle and asset tracking for the mountain and golf resort.
  • 3D Golf Course – Data and Technologies
    • A complete data and technology licensing model for partners requiring customized 3D mapping and 3D data visualization solutions.

Terra Imaging enjoys relationships with these world class partners:

Microsoft: An exclusive golf themed partnership, with Terra Imaging acquiring 3D imagery and terrain data for Microsoft Bing Maps.

Google: Data licensing partnership, where Terra Imaging supplies non-Microsoft related golf course data for integration with Google Earth and Google Maps.

US Open – USGA: Working closely with the US Open and USGA to provide 3D mapping, GPS data and web applications for US Open Tournaments.

About iCaddy – www.icaddy.com

Currently testing and in ‘beta’ development for Google Glass and other wearable devices, iCaddy is “what’s next” for golf information systems. With a natural, voice controlled application; golfers can get distances, keep score and interact with the course and each other in a whole new way. Featuring centimeter accurate 3D Golf Course data, players can see information overlaid into their view and benefit from the latest Augmented Reality golf GPS.

About iScore, LLC

The iScore Live scoring solution provides a no cost modern golf tournament and live scoring solution to golf clubs around the world, incorporating existing tournament operations with live scoring and leader boards, with handheld devices with each group, that enter real time updates on each of the scoring devices and on leader boards in the clubhouse and the web. iScore effectively enables golf clubs to run all their tournaments from a web based program. It will create all the tournament essentials; Scorecards, Cart Signs and Registration sheets. Providing live scoring through hand held scoring devices provided by iScore in partnership with the golf course will give everyone in the tournament a live leader board on the course as well as web enabled leader boards on televisions in the clubhouse and online.

iScore supplies all devices, data plan and supporting software system to qualifying clubs and is expected to launch what is referred to as its “Green Box” program in 2014.

Forward-Looking Statements. Certain of the above statements contained in this press release contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Actual results, events and circumstances (including future performance, results and trends) could differ materially from those set forth in such statements due to various factors, risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to, risks associated with the company’s future growth and operating results, the uncertainty of market acceptance of the company’s business plan, competitive factors and general economic conditions. Sputnik Enterprises, Inc. has no duty and undertakes no obligation to update such statements.

 

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