Dassault Systèmes to acquire Gemcom

World-leading 3D experience company to acquire mine and quarry software solution provider

PARIS-based Dassault Systèmes, world leaders in 3D design, 3D digital mock-up and product life-cycle management (PLM) solutions, are to acquire Vancouver-based geological modelling and simulation company Gemcom Software International for approximately US$360 million in cash.

Privately-held Gemcom provide a range of technology and services to international mining and quarrying companies, including Surpac, GEMS, Minex, MineSched, Whittle, InSite and PCBC software solutions.

Commenting on the acquisition, Bernard Charlès, president and CEO of Dassault Systèmes, said: ‘Raw material provisioning and long-term resource availability is a major concern for society. The acquisition of Gemcom is a significant step towards fulfilling our purpose of providing 3D experiences for imagining sustainable innovations to harmonize products, nature and life. To support this ambitious goal, we have created a new brand, GEOVIA.’

Rick Moignard, president and CEO of Gemcom, said the acquisition would benefit Gemcom’s customer base, bringing global support and enterprise collaboration. ‘Advanced technologies in 3D modelling and simulation will not only enable engineers and geologists to model and visualize resources, but also improve sustainable mine productivity,’ he commented.

Mr Moignard will become chief executive officer of the newly created GEOVIA brand upon completion of the acquisition, which is expected to take place in July 2012, subject to normal closing conditions and regulatory approvals.