July 20 - ABB, a leading power and automation technology group, has agreed to acquire Amarcon BV, a Dutch company that develops and markets software solutions for the shipping industry.

ABB says that the acquisition will expand its advisory systems offering for customers in the maritime sectors. The transaction is expected to be closed in the third quarter of 2012.

Based in Dalfsen, the Netherlands, Amarcon employs 15 people. Amarcon's product portfolio provides software solutions for ships that focus on safety and improved operational ability. This addition to ABB's portfolio will enhance the recently released offering of Marine Advisory Systems. Amarcon will join ABB's Process Automation Division.

ABB adds that as energy cost, emissions and ship safety become increasingly important on ships, the need for advisory systems will grow. Advisory solutions play a critical role in helping ships to optimise their onboard operations and realise efficiency improvements. ABB's Smart Marine initiative provides these solutions based on its unique expertise in all three fields of marine technology - propulsion systems, electrical systems, and automation and advisory systems.

"Amarcon's Octopus product, its know-how of ship hydrodynamics and ship modeling capabilities are a complementary and strategic fit for our existing software portfolio," said Veli-Matti Reinikkala, head of ABB's Process Automation division. "With a strong software background, this acquisition will provide ABB with additional access to fast growing energy optimisation markets."

"For Amarcon, joining ABB will accelerate our capacity to develop marine advisory products that improve vessel operational availability and safety for this fast growing market," said Leon Adegeest, founder and managing director of Amarcon BV. "We will also expand our ability to reach a broader range of customers in new geographic regions."

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www.amarcon.com

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