Mincom to acquire Comlabs

By Stan Beer
Sunday, 26 February 2006 18:13

Strategy

Australia's largest enterprise software development company, Mincom Limited, is to acquire leading Australian mining software company, Adelaide-based Comlabs, which develops and provides software systems to some of the world's largest mining operations, including BHP Billiton, RioTinto and the Anglo Group.

According to Mincom, the acquisition is in line with its  strategic commitment to invest further in its key market verticals of Mining, Defence, Utilities, Transportation and Government and to support its continued expansion globally.

Mincom chief executive officer, Richard Mathews said, "Comlabs has deep vertical market expertise and an enviable reputation in the mining industry worldwide. They too are one of a handful of Australian IT companies that have successfully exported their products right around the world. While it is recognised that Mincom is the leading software provider to the resources sector we also acknowledge that there are other vendors like Comlabs that have specific pieces of functionality that are industry specific."

"The combination of our two businesses will further enhance Mincom's ability to provide comprehensive solutions and services to asset-intensive organisations globally," Mr Mathews said.
 
The latest move follows Mincom's acquisition of Chilean software company, Exedra SA.

Mr Mathews said, "Our customers tell us they want their software supplier to take greater control over the third party technology products used in their business and this acquisition allows us to do exactly that."

Harry Fishman Comlabs marketing director said, "Our businesses started around the same time and services the same type of customers. We both believe in customer outcomes and understand the requirements of, and demands within, our customers' environment. This acquisition really is a case of business as normal for both our customers and employees given the like-minded approach that both companies have."

Comlabs' product suite includes CCLAS Laboratory Information Management System, which is widely used in the mining industry with sites at over 200 locations in more than 30 countries.  In addition, Comlabs' MineTrak product is an Integrated Stockpile & Supply Chain Management System, which is used extensively by the Coal, Base Metal and Iron Ore industries. BulkTrak and MineTrak are also used in the grain handling industry.