So it looks like Sophos is trying to buy Utimaco (thanks to Rothman for the news). Right after I saw that, the announcement came from Utimaco to their partners. Below is the announcement. Doesn’t look like anything is goign to get in the way of that deal.
Vet
Utimaco Safeware has been approached by Sophos plc., the world’s No. 4 anti-malware vendor, regarding a strategic combination of the two businesses. Sophos announced its intent to make a public takeover offer for all outstanding shares of Utimaco at a price of 14,75 Euro per share. This is a premium of about 61% above the three month average share price. We expect to get the final offer in writing within a few weeks and will then be able to comment on it.
The approach by Sophos solidifies, once again, that Utimaco offers the leading product portfolio for data protection. With the introduction of the most modern product architecture, SafeGuard® Enterprise, we provide an integrated security management of sensitive corporate data at every point in the information lifecycle. The premium announced by Sophos is an affirmation of our excellent position in the data protection market, a position also recognized by many independent industry analysts.
Extending our SafeGuard® Enterprise portfolio with the new File and Folder Protection module (targeted at network shares), as well as the integration of our SafeGuard® Leakproof product, is a top priority for Utimaco in the coming months. This will further strengthen our unique position.While we don’t yet know the contents of the final offer, rest assured that we continue to be totally committed to our distributors and resellers. In addition, Sophos has a partner network similar to Utimaco and we share a number of resellers and distributors on a worldwide basis. Utimaco is very proud of its strong partner network and its excellent relationship we’ve established with the channel over the years. We want to use this opportunity to thank you for your ongoing support and commitment.
