Atos Aims at Becoming a Leader in Big Data, Cybersecurity and Cloud by Acquiring Bull
France-based multinational IT services corporation Atos has announced its intention to acquire Bull Group, a French enterprise tech company, in an effort to become a leader in the cloud, big data and cybersecurity market.
On Monday, Atos said that it was prepared to offer €620 million ($846 million) for the company which is currently a top player in cloud, cybersecurity and big data, and a European global leader in high-performance computing. More precisely, Atos is offering €4.90 ($6.70) in cash per Bull share. This represents a 22% premium over Bull’s closing price (€4.01 / $5.4) on May 23.
By acquiring Bull, Atos wants to reinforce its position as a leader in the European cloud market and anchor its position in Managed Services and Systems Integration. Atos’ existing Managed Services and Systems Integration will be complemented by €500 million ($682 million), respectively €300 million ($409 million), revenue from Bull.
As far as big data and cybersecurity solutions are concerned, Atos intends to create a dedicated entity under the Bull brand with revenue of around €500 million ($682 million).
“I welcome this combination as a major step to anchor our European leadership in Cloud, Big Data, and Cybersecurity, toward our 2016 Ambition to become a Tier 1 company and THE preferred European global IT brand,” said Thierry Breton, Chairman and CEO of Atos.
“Bull’s highly recognized teams in advanced technologies such as high computing power, data analytics management, and cybersecurity ideally complement Atos’ large scale operations. Thanks to our integration capabilities and operational effectiveness culture, this transaction will strongly benefit Bull and Atos clients, employees, and shareholders.”
The board of directors at both Atos and Bull have approved the transaction, and Bull’s largest shareholders, Crescendo Industries and Pothar Investments, which together own 24.4% of the company, have agreed to tender their shares.
The offer will be filed with the French financial regulatory agency AMF in June, the settlement and delivery of shares being expected in mid-August, the companies said.
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