DS signs deal to acquire IBM's PLM sales and client support operations

IBM and Dassault Systemes have signed an agreement under which the latter intends to acquire IBM sales and client support operations encompassing Dassault Systemes's Product Lifecycle Management software application portfolio, as well as customer contracts and related assets, for approximately $600 million in cash. The transaction is expected to be completed in the first half of 2010.

Dassault Systemes (DS) said that after completion of the transaction and integration of the two companies' Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) operations, its PLM customers will benefit from engagement and support processes for its PLM product portfolio.

The enhanced services agreement is expected to bring significant potential with extended IBM resources and expertise to help transform client PLM environments, using the DS V6 portfolio.

Both companies are dedicated to strengthening and extending their cooperation in the areas of professional services, cloud computing, middleware, flexible financing, hardware, and sales and distribution, DS said.

Bernard Charles, president and CEO of Dassault Systemes, said: "The adoption and integration of PLM and 3D collaboration by a growing number of enterprises require deep industry knowledge. The planned integration of the IBM sales force and related business operations represents the largest investment in our corporate history.

"We are putting our customers and partners first, creating a globally efficient sales organization to bring the value of V6 PLM applications to every enterprise in every industry."

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