Dassault Systèmes (Vèlizy-Villacoublay, France; www.3ds.com), a world leader in 3D design software, 3D digital mockup and product lifecycle management (PLM) solutions and Accelrys, Inc. (San Diego, Calif.; www.accelrys.com), a leading provider of scientific innovation lifecycle management software for chemistry, biology and materials, today announced the signing of a definitive merger agreement for Dassault Systèmes to acquire Accelrys. Under the terms and conditions of the merger agreement, Dassault Systèmes will make an all cash tender offer for all of the outstanding shares of Accelrys common stock at a price of $12.50 per share, without interest, representing a fully diluted equity value for Accelrys of approximately $750 million. Dassault Systèmes intends to acquire any shares of Accelrys not tendered into the tender offer, via a merger that will be effected as soon as possible after the closing of the tender offer.
Combining with Accelrys will enrich the molecular chemistry capabilities from discovery to manufacturing and regulatory requirements of Dassault Systèmes’ formulation-based industry offerings such as life sciences, consumer packaged goods, high tech and energy, as well as advanced manufacturing industries, the companies say.
The Board of Directors of Accelrys has unanimously approved the transaction. The transaction is expected to be completed during the second quarter of 2014, subject to Accelrys shareholders tendering a majority of Accelrys’ outstanding shares in the tender offer to be launched in the coming days, receipt of certain regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions.